Shopping center parking lots present inherent security challenges as they frequently occupy a large space with low levels of activity and numerous hiding places for would-be attackers. A recent rash of strip mall violence across the country gives rise to questions of patron safety and security. What are shopping center owners doing to protect their patrons and deter crime?

In October, The News-Press reports, four people were killed and others were injured during two separate Fort Myers shopping center parking lot shootings within two days.

A woman was shot and killed “in the parking lot of a Point Loma Heights shopping center” on October 9th, per San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

“Three people were killed and another person was wounded in a shooting in the parking lot of a North Las Vegas strip mall,” on October 14th, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Victims of Parking Facility Violence: Know Your Rights

Shopping center patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting, both inside a business and outside in the parking lot. By law, property owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a shopping center owner have knowledge of prior violence on or near property, they have a responsibility to implement additional security precautions to protect patrons and deter such crime. Should a strip mall owner fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries, sexual assaults or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

According to a SafeKids Worldwide study, there are “5 teen pedestrian deaths every week in the United States.” Many of these tragedies could be prevented through driver and pedestrian education programs, school zone design, speed limits, and enforced school drop off and pick up policies.

Read the SafeKids school zone action plan to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists near our schools.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Impaired, Distracted and Negligent Drivers…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of negligent drivers. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and weoffer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The Richardson Apartment Managers Crime Awareness Group provides an avenue for property managers to partner with their Police Department to address crime issues affecting resident safety and the protection of property. Managers meet quarterly with Crime Prevention Officers, Patrol Officers, and Detectives working in their area. A guest speaker addresses a topic of interest specific to property managers. This format equips managers with information to better serve their residents and to reduce crime, while demonstrating to tenants that management is concerned about their welfare.

Apartment Community Crime Watch

While apartment community safety and security is ultimately the responsibility of the owner and management, The Richardson Police Department is empowering residents to protect themselves and their families through a neighborhood crime watch.

The Crime Prevention Unit sponsors a Resident Crime Watch program specifically for multi-family community residents. When residents partner with the police in our fight against crime, the result is a greater sense of responsibility and territorial concern for the property. With residents taking control of their own community, they feel safer while criminals feel more at risk of detection and apprehension. Resident involvement may also compel managers to become more involved.

Gunfire erupted outside a “gas station at 3090 W. Sunrise Blvd.” August 23, 2018, leaving one man critically injured, according to the Sun-Sentinel. Police told media the shooting occurred “as the victim was leaving the gas station and convenience store and may have been the result of a robbery.”

The Florida Sheriff’s Association warns, “there has been an increase in reports of theft at gas stations around the country.” Valuables are often left in plain sight inside unlocked vehicles while customers are distracted at the pump or paying inside, creating an easy target for thieves and carjackers. Unfortunately, these crimes can escalate into violence with tragic consequences.

The FSA urges patrons to take safety precautions at the pump:

Pick stations that are well-lit and have video surveillance cameras at the pump.

Keep valuables out of plain view in your vehicle and lock the doors, even if you are going inside for a moment.

Don’t let your cell phone distract you.

Always remove your keys and lock the doors while you are pumping gas.

Victims of Florida Gas Station Violence: Know Your Rights

Gas station patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting. By law, Florida gas station owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm.

Hookah lounges are often targeted for criminal activity given late hours of operation, typically low levels of lighting, and (frequently) impaired patrons.

Security measures are now in question following several tragic hookah lounge shootings across the country.

A 20-year-old man was shot and killed during an exchange of gunfire outside a Tucson hookah lounge on July 27, per Tucson News Now reports.

According to ABC 13, “three people were shot at the Ultra Hookah Lounge” in southeast Houston on July 22.

Two people were shot “at the House of Hookah” in Atlanta on July 1, 2018, per CBS 46 reports.

A 2017 Denver Channel investigation explores why “hookah bars” appear to be “magnets for crime” and what bar owners and city officials can do to deter violence. Denver City Councilwoman, Kendra Black, told media, “[t]he problems usually start after bars close, when people go to hookah lounges that don’t have a closing time.” As such, city officials are considering regulating hours. Some Denver hookah lounge owners are implementing preventative measures, such as “a strict dress code, posting warning signs in the parking lot to stop cruising, and hiring off-duty officers for security.”

Hookah lounge patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting. By law, property owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should a hookah lounge owner fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries, sexual assaults, or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

You Deserve Justice. We Can Help.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims and families of negligent gas station security. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and we offer our legal assistance, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

When one Arizona rape survivor found herself trapped in an apartment lease next door to her attacker, she fought to free herself and the hundreds of other victims suffering a similar, unjust circumstance.

Starting on August 3rd, AZ Central reports, new legislation will now allow victims of sexual assault to break their leases without paying costly terminations fees, which can often total into the thousands of dollars. A state statute already allowed victims of domestic abuse to break their leases. This new legislation, “pushed by state Rep. Daniel Hernandez, D-Tucson, and Rep. Maria Syms, R-Paradise Valley,” expands the exception to include victims of rape and sexual assault. AZ Central explains:

How to Break a Lease if You’ve Been Abused, Raped or Sexually Assaulted in Arizona

File a police report or seek an order of protection as soon as possible.

Request the lease termination within 30 days of the domestic abuse, sexual assault or rape, unless your landlord grants more time.

Provide the landlord with a written request to vacate on a mutually agreed upon date along with copies of the police report or order of protection.

If you wish to change the locks on your apartment while you stay, let the landlord know. You will need to pay for installation.

The landlord cannot charge termination fees or rent after you vacate and must return your security deposit. However, if you have prepaid rent for the month of your departure or if you have damaged the apartment, the landlord can withhold money.

Roommates on the lease can sign a new rental agreement if they wish to stay and are not the perpetrator.

A landlord may legally pursue the perpetrator for the cost of terminating the lease. A false accuser can be liable for three times the cost.

Survivors of Arizona Apartment Sexual Assault: Know Your Rights

Apartment residents should not be afraid in their own homes. While Arizona law makers improve legislation to protect rape and sexual assault survivors rather than property owners, local apartment owners must also do their part to protect their residents. By law, apartment complex owners and property managers have a duty to protect residents from any foreseeable harm. For example, should an apartment complex owner have knowledge of break-ins or assaults on or near property, they have a responsibility to warn their residents and to implement additional security measures to protect them. Should a property owner fail in this critical duty, they may be held civilly liable for any sexual assaults, injuries or deaths which occur as a consequence.

(“More than a dozen people protested at the meeting. Some are owners of hotels they say would fail the city’s test.” WFYI)

Indianapolis city leaders hope “to decrease crime by flagging high-crime hotels, then giving owners a two-year period to either improve conditions or risk losing their license,” according to a WFYI report. The ordinance, which passed in March, targets hotels with a ratio of 2.5 or more emergency calls made per room.

“If this measure had been in place in 2017, 15 Indianapolis hotels likely would have been affected,” The Indianapolis Business Journal reports. “The city information shows those 15 hotels generated nearly 2,700 police and fire calls last year. Eight of those establishments generated more than 150 calls each in 2017 and another was responsible for 149. Three were the site of more than 300 calls, and police and firefighters responded to a whopping 510 calls at the Motor 8 Inn on North Shadeland Avenue. That’s 1.4 times a day.”

Guest Rights and Hotel Responsibility

By law, hotel owners have a duty to protect guests from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a hotel owner be aware of prior violence on or near their property, they have a duty to take security precautions to deter such crime in the future and to provide a safe and secure premises for their guests.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Hotel Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Thousands of kids will head off to camp this summer, a childhood rite of passage where long lasting friendships and memories will be made. When selecting the right summer camp, many focus on fun activities and amenities, but it’s important to look beyond the shiny brochure and beautiful grounds. All too often children are injured at camp due to avoidable safety risks, such as under staffing, over crowding, a lack of staff training, or unsafe property conditions.

Parent Safety Questions for Camp

The American Camp Association, a voluntary camp accreditation service, urges parents to ask questions when selecting a summer camp for their children:

What is the camp’s philosophy and program emphasis?

What is the camp director’s background?

What training do counselors receive?

What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?

What are the ages of the counselors?

What are desired qualities in camp staff?

What percentage of the counselors returned from last year?

How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?

How does the camp handle special needs?

How does the camp handle homesickness and other adjustment issues?

What about references?

Does the American Camp Association accredit the camp?

Additional questions may include:

How does the camp handle, communicate and respond to individual camper safety needs, such as allergies?

What is the camp’s policy for inclement weather safety?

What water safety measures are in place to protect campers?

How does the camp avoid and respond to heatstroke and dehydration? How often are campers given rest and water breaks during hot days?

When were property facilities and structures last inspected?

What screening measures and background checks are performed on camp staff?

Safety Measures for Campers

While camp owners and directors are ultimately responsible for providing a safe and secure premises for children, SafeKids urges parents to discuss personal safety concerns with children directly before they head off to camp. Conversations may include:

Campers should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Summer days can get very hot, especially when humidity is high and few clouds are in the sky. If a child doesn’t drink enough water, heatstroke and dehydration can occur. Remind your child of the importance of drinking water throughout the day.

Make sure that your child doesn’t swim unless the pool is supervised by adults. The pool can be a potentially dangerous place, especially since some kids may not know how to swim well. Children should never be swimming unless there are lifeguards and/or counselors watching over the pool, so make sure that your child doesn’t enter the water unless there’s adult supervision.

Remind your child to be watchful when walking near streets on field trips. Make sure that your camper knows to stay on the sidewalk and look both ways before crossing the street. Additionally, make sure that they don’t get distracted with mobile devices.

Summer Camp Safety Negligence: Families Know Your Rights

By law, property owners are required to protect all guests legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. This responsibility is paramount when overseeing the safety and security of children. For example, should camp directors have knowledge of a potential safety risk, they have a duty to take reasonable security precautions to protect campers under their care. Should they fail in this duty, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or deaths which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Property Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and apartment security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Milwaukee’s Office of Violence Prevention has joined forces with the Health Department, Police Department, Sheriff’s Office, and many nonprofit and youth service organizations in hopes of achieving one goal this summer: no youth homicides. The coalition recognizes “it takes a village” and calls on residents to proactively join them in fostering city youth over summer vacation.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports, over 100 representatives from these agencies met in May to discuss how to best keep children busy and safe this summer. The initiative is a critical part of the city’s larger “Blueprint for Peace” initiative, a campaign to reduce violence through active resident involvement and community support.

The Blueprint for Peace is “organized around six goals: stop the shooting; promote healing and restorative justice; support children, youth and families; promote economic opportunity; foster safe and strong neighborhoods; and strengthen the coordination of violence prevention efforts.”

Local business owners appear to be missing from this coalition, most notably apartment complex owners. It is critical property owners take a stand in fighting community violence by providing safe and secure premises to patrons, particularly the youngest members of the community. Milwaukee apartment complex owners have a unique opportunity to “foster safe and strong neighborhoods” by taking a proactive approach to safety and security measures on their property. Families have a right to feel safe in their own homes. Children shouldn’t have to grow up under the threat of gunfire, believing that is a normal and unavoidable occurrence.

Unfortunately, apartment complex owners are all too often more concerned with limiting their financial exposure than providing families with a safe space to raise their children. It is time apartment complex owners take a proactive approach to local violence and join the city’s Blueprint for Peace. Apartment owners and managers should liaise with law enforcement to reduce crime and protect their youngest residents. Security measures may include: gated-entry, fencing, bright lighting, security patrols, surveillance cameras, emergency call boxes, signage, and off-duty police patrols.

Victims of Milwaukee Apartment Violence: Know Your Rights

Families should not be afraid in their own homes. While community leaders and law enforcement work to end violence in Milwaukee neighborhoods, local apartment owners must do their part to deter crime and protect residents. Families have a right to be safe and secure in their own homes. By law, apartment owners and management companies have a duty to protect residents from any foreseeable harm. For example, should an apartment owner have knowledge of prior violence and criminal activity in the surrounding area, they must take reasonable steps to protect residents and deter future crime. Should a property owner fail in this critical duty, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries, sexual assaults or deaths which occur as a consequence.

The St. Petersburg Police Department is collaborating with local apartment complex owners to reduce crime and improve quality of life for residents through the Apartment Community Crime Reduction Program. The three-phase certification program includes training for property owners managers, and staff; a security inspection of the community; and a meeting with residents”includes a certification process, signage similar to those used for neighborhood crime watch, certificates, and advertising privileges.”

Whether attending a performance at a large stadium, outdoor music festival, or small nightclub, concert goers have a right to feel safe and secure inside the venue and on the property grounds. Concert facilities present inherent security challenges, given frequently low-levels of lighting, loud music, and (often) impaired guests. Disturbingly, many facilities do not have procedures in place to respond to incidents of sexual assault and harassment.

Our Music My Body, a Chicago-based advocacy campaign, promotes “fun and consensual music experiences for all.” The campaign recently surveyed over 500 concert goers on experiences of harassment at music venues. The Chicago Tribune released the findings in March 2018:

“For the 92 percent of females who said they had been harassed in music spaces, the incidents included experiences of spoken harassment, groping, sexual gestures, stalking, being yelled at and being photographed or videoed without permission. Thirty-one percent of male fans experienced both physical and nonphysical harassment, according to the survey, and 60 percent of transgender attendees reported physical homophobic or transphobic violence.”

When asked what security measures they would like to see implemented in the future, “99 percent of the respondents would feel more comfortable if venues had increased security, with 84 percent preferring that staff and security be trained in violence prevention and crisis intervention. Seventy-five percent of respondents want venues and festivals to increase signage that clarifies anti-harassment policies, and 62 percent hope venues create a designated safe space for those being harassed to go and still be able to enjoy the show.”

Victims of Music Venue Violence: Know Your Rights

Concert goers have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting. By law, concert facility owners have a duty to protect guests from any foreseeable harm.

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

The D.C. Metro Police Department is raising public awareness of “a common crime tactic perpetrated by thieves” at gas stations. “These thieves target unsuspecting vehicle owners when they are pumping gas or paying the tab in the station….A suspect vehicle will drive up next to the victim’s auto, quickly open the unlocked door, and grab any easily-accessible items. Then they will just as quickly drive off. It happens in a matter of seconds.”

A gas station theft can easily escalate to violence and tragedy when an unsuspecting victim stumbles upon an armed perpetrator. Gas station patrons are urged to follow DCMPD tips on how to avoid becoming a victim:

Pick stations that are well-lit and have video-surveillance cameras at the pump.

Make a list of favorite gas stations along your regular travel routes. Stations near police departments and state police barracks are good choices.

Always remove your keys and lock the car doors while you are pumping gas. If you sense danger and you have a panic button on your car keys, keep your hands on the panic button until help arrives.

Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle and lock the doors, even if you are going inside for just a moment.

Pick your pump with care. It might be worthwhile to wait for the pump nearest to the attendant or building.

Pay attention to your surroundings.

Don’t be distracted by your cell phone.

Victims of Gas Station Violence: Know Your Rights

Gas station patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting. By law, Georgia property owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a gas station owner have knowledge of prior violence on or near property, they have a responsibility to implement additional security precautions to protect patrons and deter such crime. Additional security measures may include bright lighting, a security guard or off-duty police officer, surveillance cameras, and bulletproof pass-through windows for cash transactions. Should a gas station owner or manager fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

Nightclubs are often targeted for criminal activity given late hours of operation, typically low levels of lighting, and a frequent presence of alcohol. By law, bar and nightclub owners are required to protect their patrons from any foreseeable harm.

Bouncers, severs and sellers must be vigilant and check all IDs. If a patron does not look 40, check his or her ID.

Be responsible servers—do not serve alcohol to a intoxicated person.

Promote responsible consumption.

Discourage loitering in front of establishments.

Victims of Nightclub Violence and Sexual Assault: Know Your Rights

If you are a victim of sexual assault get help. Call the police, a friend, or a rape crisis center. If possible, save your clothes, don’t shower or brush teeth, and seek medical attention immediately. If you have a lapse of memory, or wake up in a strange place and feel you might have been a victim of a sexual assault, contact a local law enforcement agency immediately. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Bar and nightclub patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting. By law, property owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should a nightclub owner fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

You Deserve Justice. We Can Help.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims and families of negligent nightclub security. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and we offer our legal assistance, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Multiple media outlets have launched investigations into a string of alleged sexual assaults at popular massage chain, Massage Envy. These allegations span several years, revealing a shocking history of misconduct.

In December 2017, a Thornton mother shared her story of alleged misconduct involving her daughter with Denver 7, after she reported “Massage Envy staff and corporate did nothing to investigate or prevent it from happening again.”

The allegation is one of many. A November 2017 investigation by BuzzFeed News revealed, “More than 180 people across the United States have filed sexual assault lawsuits, police reports and other sexual misconduct complaints against Massage Envy spas, their employees and the national company.”

Unfortunately, some state and local laws are set up to protect massage business owners rather than victims. Denver 7 reports, Aurora community leaders are now “taking action to protect victims of sexual assault at massage spas….The city’s new ordinance would make it mandatory for massage therapy business to report any alleged sexual assaults to police, while also cracking down on prostitution and human trafficking through required licensing.”

Victims of Massage Spa and Clinic Sexual Assault: Know Your Rights

Legal advocates for victims of sexual assault and property negligence at The Murray Law Firm are saddened by the media reports and support recent attempts by community leaders to hold business owners accountable. Our firm has represented victims of massage spas and clinics, and assaults and rapes at these establishments have become all too frequent. The recent investigative reports continue to raise grave questions about employee screenings and criminal background checks.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

Parking facilities present inherent security challenges as they frequently occupy a large space with low levels of activity and numerous hiding places for would-be attackers. While parking facility owners are required by law to protect patrons from any foreseeable harm, Montgomery Chief of Police and former Secret Service agent, Jim Napolitano, urges patrons to take security precautions of their own.

“Check for hiding spots where predators could lurk and walk in the center aisle of the lot.” Remember your safety is more important than your bag.

Scenario 2: An encounter with a stranger in a parking garage

“He’ll act like he’s not paying attention to you, but you know he’s following you….The best thing to do is obviously assess the situation, get away from them as quickly as possible, get some distance between you (and) go back into the building where you came from, not past him. If you have to go out of the garage and all the way around, do it as quickly and as fast as you can.”

Scenario 3: Targeting shoppers as they load groceries into their cars

“You want to take your purse or your bag. Then, once it’s secured on your shoulder, you pick up your child, and take them to the (vehicle), not worrying about your groceries. Secure your child and bag in your car. Last thing you get is your groceries.”

Chief Napolitano’s Top 4 Safety Tips for Parking Lot Safety:

Check your surroundings.

Keep a safe distance between you and strangers.

Create a path for movement.

If it doesn’t feel safe, go back inside. Don’t go to your car.

Victims of Parking Facility Violence: Know Your Rights

Parking lot and parking garage patrons have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment they are visiting. By law, property owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a parking facility owner have knowledge of prior violence on or near property, they have a responsibility to implement additional security precautions to protect patrons and deter such crime. Should a parking facility owner fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

Residents of independent and assisted living facilities have a right to be safe and secure in their homes and on the grounds of the property where they are living.

By law, property owners and managers have a duty to protect residents from any injuries or foreseeable harm. This duty is paramount when overseeing the care of elderly or disabled residents who may not be able to protect themselves, particularly in the event of a fire or emergency. Assisted living facility owners and managers must consider resident mobility in their fire safety and emergency evacuation plans. Should a property owner fail in this critical responsibility, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or deaths which occur as a consequence.

Is the building well maintained? Make sure that paper and other storage items do not block doors or hallways needed for escape.

Check to make sure there is an evacuation plan in place that involves all staff and is practiced regularly.

Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, smoke detectors, and sprinklers?

Check on the staff-to-patient ratio. How many staff per resident during the day and especially at night or on weekends and holidays? Is supervisory staff available to carryout an escape plan if there is a fire?

Are there guidelines for people who smoke such as a separate room or staff supervision?

Does nursing home management take your questions regarding safety seriously and are they forthcoming with information?

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Property Safety and Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Fast food restaurants are often targets for criminal activity due to their (typically) easily accessible location and late night hours of operation.

Patron Rights and Restaurant Owner Responsibility

Restaurant patrons have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting.

By law, restaurant owners have a duty to protect patrons from any injuries, sexual assaults or foreseeable harm. As such, hotel owners are encouraged to implement property security precautions and preventative measures to protect guests and reduce property violence, injuries and deaths.

Restaurant news outlet, Fast Casual, urges business owners to take a proactive approach to security by “evaluating vulnerabilities that need to be addressed inside and outside the walls.” Some security precautions may include:

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Restaurant Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Hotel owners are required by law to protect their patrons from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a hotel owner by aware of prior violence on or near their property, they have a duty to take security precautions to deter such crime in the future and to provide a safe and secure premises for their guests.

The Portland Police Bureau has published a guide to help hotel owners to deter criminal activity and protect guests on their property.

Hotel guests have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting. By law, hotel owners have a duty to protect guests from any foreseeable harm.

Hotel owners are encouraged to implement property security precautions and preventative measures, such as those outlined above, to protect guests and reduce property violence, injuries and deaths.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Hotel Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Laundromats are often targets for criminal activity due to (frequently) late hours of operation, (perceived) cash transactions, and vulnerable patrons. Industry experts with the Coin Laundry Association (CLA) urge laundromat owners to take a proactive approach to customer and employee safety by:

Staying informed of local crime data and increasing security measures as needed

Implementing a credit card or smart card laundry vending system to reduce cash flow on property

Installing an alarm system

Providing employees workplace violence training

Patron Rights and Laundromat Responsibility

Laundromat patrons have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting. By law, laundromat owners have a duty to protect patrons from any foreseeable harm.

Laundromat owners are encouraged to implement property security precautions and preventative measures, such as those outlined above, to protect patrons and reduce property violence, injuries and deaths.

I am the Victim of an Apartment Shooting. Should I Hire an Attorney that has Telephoned Me or Contacted Me Directly?

The American Bar Association Rule 7.3 states that a lawyer “shall not” contact a prospective Client through a “live telephone” or an “in-person” visit. If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Our Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

You Deserve Justice. We Can Help.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims and families of negligent security at apartment complexes. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and we offer our legal assistance, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports, every year an average of 10,000 people are killed on U.S. roadways due to drunk driving or impaired drivers. Thousands more are left with serious injuries. The tragedy is that every one of these losses and injuries is completely preventable. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, including a recent $29.25 million dollar verdict, and our mission is to help the victims these tragic and senseless accidents.

I Was Seriously Injured in an Accident. What Assistance Can an Attorney Provide?

After an accident, our Clients come in with a number of questions and concerns. Many of these relate to insurance negotiations, medical care and property damage. In some tragic circumstances, a loved one has been lost in an accident and grieving family members are uncertain of how to proceed. A dedicated, experienced personal injury firm should be able to immediately provide victims of motor vehicle accidents with a strategic plan to navigate the coming days, months, and years. Each case is different and should be customized to the needs of the specific victim. Your initial consultation should be free, thorough and provide you with a solid understanding of your legal options.

Should I Speak With or Hire an Attorney that Contacted Me Directly, In the Hospital, Through Social Media, or Through an Investigator?

The American Bar Association Rule 7.3 states that a lawyer “shall not” contact a prospective Client through a “live telephone” or an “in-person” visit. If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Do I Need an Attorney to Negotiate with Insurance Companies?

Sadly, insurance companies are all too often more concerned with limiting their own financial exposure than providing victims with the compensation and long-term medical care they need. An experienced personal injury attorney will handle all negotiations with insurance companies to get victims the maximum recovery they deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney should also handle property damage claims related to your case. Be sure to ask any potential attorney about their experience negotiating with insurance companies. Having an experienced personal injury attorney during this complex negotiation process can mean the difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation.

How Do I Handle Medical Billing and Long-Term Medical Care While Waiting on an At-Fault Driver’s Insurance?

A comprehensive personal injury firm will assist Clients by acting as a liaison between their medical care providers and insurance companies. The firm should handle all communications and negotiations with medical billing offices and an exceptional attorney will even coordinate long-term medical appointments and Client transportation to medical providers, if needed.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

You Deserve Justice. We Can Help.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims and families devastated by impaired drivers. We offer our legal assistance, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

“Each year more than 2,400 pedestrians and 960 bicyclists are hit by vehicles in North Carolina, making North Carolina one of the least safe states in the US for walking and bicycling,” according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, including a recent $29.25 million dollar verdict, and our mission is to help the victims these tragic and senseless accidents.

I Was Seriously Injured in an Accident. What Assistance Can an Attorney Provide?

After an accident, our Clients come in with a number of questions and concerns. Many of these relate to insurance negotiations, medical care and property damage. In some tragic circumstances, a loved one has been lost in an accident and grieving family members are uncertain of how to proceed. A dedicated, experienced personal injury firm should be able to immediately provide victims of motor vehicle accidents with a strategic plan to navigate the coming days, months, and years. Each case is different and should be customized to the needs of the specific victim. Your initial consultation should be free, thorough and provide you with a solid understanding of your legal options.

Should I Speak With or Hire an Attorney that Contacted Me Directly, In the Hospital, Through Social Media, or Through an Investigator?

The American Bar Association Rule 7.3 states that a lawyer “shall not” contact a prospective Client through a “live telephone” or an “in-person” visit. If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Do I Need an Attorney to Negotiate with Insurance Companies?

Sadly, insurance companies are all too often more concerned with limiting their own financial exposure than providing victims with the compensation and long-term medical care they need. An experienced personal injury attorney will handle all negotiations with insurance companies to get victims the maximum recovery they deserve. Be sure to ask any potential attorney about their experience negotiating with insurance companies. Having an experienced personal injury attorney during this complex negotiation process can mean the difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation and medical care.

How Do I Handle Medical Billing and Long-Term Medical Care While Waiting on the Driver’s Insurance?

A comprehensive personal injury firm will assist Clients by acting as a liaison between their medical care providers and insurance companies. The firm should handle all communications and negotiations with medical billing offices and an exceptional attorney will even coordinate long-term medical appointments and Client transportation to medical providers, if needed.

Can I Afford an Attorney?

Clients frequently come in concerned that they won’t be able to afford legal help. We believe everyone has a right to exceptional legal service. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. This means our interests are always tied to that of our Clients. Be sure to ask any potential personal injury attorney about their fee schedule and whether they represent Clientele on a contingency basis before signing a contract.

You Deserve Justice. We Can Help.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing cyclists and pedestrians injured by drivers. We offer our legal assistance, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Following the recent Orlando nightclub tragedy, CNBC spoke with industry security consultants, Bob Smith and Cynthia Harris, to address common nightclub security vulnerabilities and what bar and nightclub owners can do to deter crime and protect patrons.

Vulnerabilities & Preventative Techniques

“Whether it’s a bar, nightclub, church or school, business owners need to assess inherent threats to their location based on local crime rates and previous incidents.”

“[B]usinesses can strengthen security protocols by instituting pat-downs or metal detection devices at entrances; stipulating that music in the location is turned off during an altercation; and training staff regularly to deal with threats.”

“[A] major vulnerability for bars and nightclubs, specifically, is the time at which these locations close….not only have the patrons at the business likely been drinking, but the staff is nearing the end of their shifts and could be tired and less vigilant.”

The Huffington Post reports, “apartments have an 85 percent greater chance of being burglarized than a single family homeowner or rental property.” While apartment security is the responsibility of the owner and management company, tenants can take steps to deter crime and protect their families.

Before signing a lease, The Huntington Post urges tenants to consider the safety tips outlined below:

Home security systems: Today’s systems are wireless and portable. You don’t need to own a house or have a contractor install it. Ask if you have permission to install an in-apartment home security system with motion detectors. This should not be negotiable.

Peephole: Require a peephole on your door.

Door security: If the doors are glass-paned opposed to solid-core doors, then your potential landlord isn’t concerned about your security. Doors should have a knob lock and a deadbolt, and the doorjamb and hinges should be reinforced.

Surveillance cameras: Having one to 16 cameras with signage lets the bad guy know he’s being watched. Most camera systems can be remotely accessed with your mobile phone or tablet.

High-wattage sodium lighting: You cameras will work better with good lighting. Exterior lighting on the perimeter lets the bad guy know he can’t hide.

Parking lot security fencing: Perimeter fencing six feet high is a great deterrent.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of nightclub security negligence and their families. More importantly, we help these victims and their families obtain the justice they deserve. The tragic common denominator behind all of these cases is that they may have been prevented with proper venue security and safety precautions.

Nightclub & Bar magazine has published “5 Security Mistakes Failing Owners Make,” outlined below. We urge nightclub owners to learn from these mistakes and be proactive in creating a safe and secure atmosphere for their patrons.

3. Inadequate Supervision: Managers doing too much or something else at the wrong time; in the office, behind the bar, in the kitchen or off the property when they are needed for true crisis management of an event.

4. Inadequate Number of Guards: Too often, operators think they can do the job with fewer guard than is safe or managers get a false sense of safety after a few weekends without any incidents causing them to cut security staff to save on payroll.

5. Inadequate Policies and Procedures: Employees must be given guidelines on the operation from management. Employees must be given expectations on what to do regarding the operation and these policies must be trained and reiterated.

Many families will be visiting hotel pools and spas during their summer vacation. While, zero-degree entry, waterslides, and hot tubs may be on the list of must-have hotel pool amenities, safe drainage and a recent inspection report are probably not.

Hotel and spa owners are required to follow state and federal regulations and to protect their guests from any foreseeable harm. Unfortunately, thousands of pools and hot tubs were closed last year due to serious violations, per recent CDC reports.

Pool Safely, an initiative of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, urges families to ask the following questions before visiting a commercial pool or spa:

Having the Appropriate Equipment

Are there fences that limit access to the pool and spa?

Has the pool or spa been inspected to ensure it is compliant with federal and local laws and regulations?

Are the new safety drain covers being used in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act?

Do pool and spa pumps appear to be running?

Is there life-saving equipment such as life rings and reaching poles available for use?

In preparation for Healthy and Safe Swimming Week, the CDC reminds families to inspect pools, hot tubs, water playgrounds, and aquatic venues before use.

Although apartment owners should follow and enforce swimming pool safety standards to protect residents and prevent injuries and illness, the CDC warns, thousands of serious safety violations were discovered in aquatic venues last year. As such, apartment residents should consider taking the CDC Swimming Safety Checklist before hitting the pool:

Houston’s Blue Star Multi-Housing Program is a collaborative effort between local law enforcement and apartment owners to reduce crime and improve quality of life for residents within Blue Star communities.

The Metropolitan Police Department of Washington D.C. has published detailed safety guidelines to assist owners and managers of nightlife establishments in deterring crime and maintaining a safe premises. One goal of the publication is to reduce sexual assaults in nightclubs, bars and lounges. These guidelines are highlighted below.

9 MPD Nightclub Management Guidelines to Deter Sexual Assault

Management and employees can help to prevent their premises from being exploited by sexual aggressors, who may seek to take advantage of vulnerable patrons. Alcohol is the most common substance aggressors use to facilitate sexual assault. Both the aggressor and the target may have impaired judgment and lower awareness as a result of alcohol consumption, leading to a greater chance of sexual violation anywhere along the spectrum from harassment to violent assault. However, the environment around a sexual aggressor can make a difference in their behavior.

Young women are statistically most likely to be the target of unwanted sexual attention and ag- gression, but it’s important to keep in mind that anyone may be a target, including patrons of gay establishments. Aggressors often present themselves as friendly, seeking to get to know a tar- get, buying them drinks, or otherwise displaying a romantic interest. Aggressors may also engage in unwanted contact such as pressing up against someone on the dance floor, groping, or “up-skirt” grabbing. If bar staff notice any of these behaviors, it may be useful for them to ask the target if s/he would like any intervention and/or keep a close eye on the situation in case it escalates.

Escalation can also take place off-premises. A common scenario is for an aggressor to initiate an interaction on the premises, isolate the target from her friends, and then persuade or pressure the target to leave with him. Employees should be attuned to behavior that seems overly familiar or aggressive under the circumstances, especially if the potential target is visibly intoxicated or seems to be impaired.

Establishment personnel should offer to call a cab for the vulnerable or impaired person, and closely observe as patrons leave to see if they seem to be able to navigate safely. Security personnel at the door or outside are well positioned and should observe when patrons leave. They should also take general note of whom patrons arrive with and whether they leave with the same group or someone else. Note that aggressors may seek to get targets drunk or drugged, encourage them to get some air, and then pull up in a car or hail a cab to take them away.

If establishment personnel sense that something is awry, either when an aggressor is purchasing drinks for a potential target who is visibly intoxicated, isolating her from her friends, or trying to leave with her, personnel should make it clear to the aggressor that they have been observed by asking them in front of others how they’re doing or if they need some help. Staff can also use distraction techniques to separate the target from the aggressor, such as telling the potential target that her friends are looking for her. If possible, employees should make a note of the circumstances, the descriptions of the parties, or any other information that could become relevant at a later time. However, establishment managers and staff should make every effort to keep patrons safe and proactively intervene if they observe any suspicious or problematic behaviors.

Encourage groups to designate one person as a chaperone and perhaps identify this person with a wristband. This person could be served non-alcoholic beverages at a discount for the night.

For prevention of assaults on the premises, maintain surveillance cameras outside restroom doors, and consider employing a restroom attendant. Ensure that restrooms are used by the appropriate gender. If the restrooms are gender-segregated, monitor to ensure that men do not enter the women’s restroom (keeping in mind that some people who appear to be one gender may in fact be another). Surveillance cameras should be monitored throughout the night, especially near closing time. Ensure that storage areas and other restricted areas are kept locked and secured. Closed darkened areas create a potential danger.

Support staff, including porters, barbacks, busboys, and kitchen staff, should receive sexual assault awareness training that will help them be aware of patron behavior and recognize potential perpetrator behaviors that may lead to sexual assault, especially as these employees work in or pass through areas that are dark or restricted. As part of their training, employees should be instructed to immediately report any suspicious or problematic behavior to a supervisor or manager.

Establishments can send a clear message that there is zero tolerance for sexual assault by posting signs letting patrons know that their safety is a priority, and including on the signs who among the staff a patron can approach if they need assistance.

Perhaps most important, management and employees should trust their instincts regarding possible predatory behavior they may observe. If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Management should communicate to employees, ideally by establishing a written policy, that they support proactive efforts to address suspicious, aggressive, or predatory behavior. If possible, employees should make notes of any situation they observed for later reference if needed.

Bar and nightclub patrons do not typically think about property safety and security measures when selecting a nightlife establishment. Instead, it is the responsibility of nightclub owners and managers to implement safety and security measures and train staff to protect their patrons from any foreseeable harm.

Nightclub owners and managers have a duty to protect patrons from any foreseeable harm while on the premises. Unfortunately, many nightclubs restrict security efforts to the inside of the establishment and ignore the parking lot and perimeter, where many assaults take place. These crimes may be deterred through proper outdoor security, lighting, escorts, and surveillance cameras.

I have seen so many operators in the nightclub business worry about security inside the club, but assume that what happens outside is “not their problem.” It is important for us to all realize that, fair or unfair, we are responsible for not just the inside security, but the outside security for a significant radius around our establishments. In the eyes of the liquor licensing bodies, any incidents that happen anywhere close to your establishment is a reflection on you, and these incidents can be used to sanction your license. Even worse is public perception: one high-profile shooting can cripple your club and brand it to the public as “dangerous.”

How do you combat that? You must be willing to spend the money on quality professional outside security. More importantly, you must constantly remind them they cannot just sit in their car, they must make constant patrols of parking lots and the area around the club. If they see groups of people loitering in your parking lot, those people must be ordered to leave. If a patron has been involved in a fight, they must leave, and their license plate should be recorded as well. Groups of girls leaving the club? Ask if they would like an escort. Outside security should be making constant rounds, staying on top of problems before they happen.

Nightclub patrons have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting. By law, nightclub owners and managers have a duty to protect patrons from any foreseeable harm.

Bar and nightclub owners are encouraged to implement parking lot and perimeter security precautions and preventative measures, such as those outlined above, to protect patrons and reduce property violence, injuries and deaths.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Violent crimes often occur in parking lots, hotels, nightclubs, and apartment complexes. While property owners have a legal duty to protect patrons legally on their premises from any foreseeable harm, many fail to provide adequate security and safety measures.

Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when the streets are deserted.

When out at night, try to have a friend walk with you.

Carry only the money you’ll need on a particular day.

Don’t display your cash or any other inviting targets such as pagers, cell phones, hand-held electronic games, or expensive jewelry and clothing.

If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lighted house. Don’t be afraid to yell for help.

Try to park in well-lighted areas with good visibility and close to walkways, stores, and people.

Make sure you have your key out as you approach your door.

Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway; never leave your motor running.

Do everything you can to keep a stranger from getting into your car or to keep a stranger from forcing you into his or her car.

If a dating partner has abused you, do not meet him or her alone. Do not let him or her in your home or car when you are alone.

If you are a battered spouse, call the police or sheriff immediately. Assault is a crime, whether committed by a stranger or your spouse or any other family member. If you believe that you and your children are in danger, call a crisis hotline or a health center (the police can also make a referral) and leave immediately.

If someone tries to rob you, give up your property—don’t give up your life.

If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

We Fight for Victims of Property Violence and Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

Property owners and managers are required by law to provide a safe premises for all guests legally on their property and to prevent foreseeable third-party criminal attacks, such as rapes, shootings, assaults, or robberies. For example, should a hotel, parking lot, nightclub, or apartment complex proprietor have reason to anticipate a criminal act based on knowledge of a security lapse or a previous crime on or near property, he or she then has a duty to exercise ordinary care to deter such crime and protect those legally on their premises from harm.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of property violence and security negligence, and we offer our legal assistance if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The implementation of proper fire safety devices, procedures and training is the responsibility of hotel owners and managers and critical to the safety of hotel staff and guests. Travelers can also protect themselves by researching hotel fire procedures and evacuation plans before or during check-in.

The U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA) outline fire safety tips for hotel owners and guests below:

Choose a hotel/motel that is protected by both smoke alarms and a fire sprinkler system.

When you check in, ask the front desk what the fire alarm sounds like.

When you enter your room, review the escape plan posted in your room.

Take the time to find the exits and count the number of doors between your room and the exit. Make sure the exits are unlocked. If they are locked, report it to management right away.

Keep your room key by your bed and take it with you if there is a fire.

If the alarm sounds, leave right away, closing all doors behind you. Use the stairs — never use elevators during a fire.

If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.

If you can’t escape:

Shut off fans and air conditioners.

Stuff wet towels in the crack around the doors.

Call the fire department and let them know your location.

Wait at the window and signal with a flashlight or light colored cloth.

Know Your Rights

Hotel guests have a right to feel safe and secure while on the property. By law, property owners are required to protect all guests legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the property owner fail to provide adequate safety measures, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

We Fight for Victims of Property Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of unsafe properties, and recently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for one of our Clients.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

College students living in on-campus dormitories or apartments need to be aware of potential fire hazards in their building and how to react in case of emergency. The National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA) warns, “educating students on what they can do to stay safe during the school year is important and often overlooked.” As such, the NFPA has developed safety tips, particularly addressing fire hazards in dormitories and off-campus housing.

NFPA Safety Tips

Look for fully sprinklered housing when choosing a dorm or off-campus housing.

Make sure you can hear the building alarm system when you are in your dorm room.

If you live in a dormitory, make sure your sleeping room has a smoke alarm, or your dormitory suite has a smoke alarm in each living area as well as the sleeping room. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the dormitory suite should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

If you live in an apartment or house, make sure smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the apartment unit or house. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the apartment unit or house should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.

Test all smoke alarms at least monthly.

Never remove batteries or disable the alarm.

Learn your building’s evacuation plan and practice all drills as if they were the real thing.

If you live off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.

When the smoke alarm or fire alarm sounds, get out of the building quickly and stay out.

Stay in the kitchen when cooking.

Cook only when you are alert, not sleepy or drowsy from medicine or alcohol.

Check with your local fire department for any restrictions before using a barbeque grill, fire pit, or chimenea.

If you smoke, smoke outside and only where it is permitted, Use sturdy, deep, non-tip ashtrays. Don’t smoke in bed or when you’ve been drinking or are drowsy.

Burn candles only if the school permits their use. A candle is an open flame and should be placed away from anything that can burn. Never leave a candle unattended. Blow it out when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Know Your Rights

Dormitory and apartment residents have a right to feel safe and secure while in the community. By law, property owners are required to protect all residents legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the property owner fail to provide adequate safety measures, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

We Fight for Victims of Property Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of unsafe properties, and recently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for one of our Clients.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

The Center for Public Health at John Moore University recently published a study on Liverpool’s ‘Say No to Drunks’ campaign, an intervention program to deter the sale of alcohol to intoxicated bar and nightclub patrons. The campaign, which incorporates public awareness, bar staff training, police enforcement, and the implementation of breathalysers, should be closely watched by city officials and nightlife establishment owners in the U.S. Such prevention measures may significantly reduce nightclub assaults and intoxicated driving.

Below is a brief overview of the CPH study and the ‘Say No to Drunks’ launch:

“A study conducted in Liverpool found that 84% of alcohol purchase attempts by pseudo-intoxicated actors in pubs, bars and nightclubs were successful (Hughes et al., 2014). Thus to address the sale of alcohol to drunks in the city’s nightlife, Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Police developed and implemented the Say No To Drunks pilot intervention. The intervention aimed to: increase awareness of legislation preventing sales of alcohol to drunks; support bar staff compliance with the law; provide a strong deterrence to selling alcohol to drunks; and promote responsible drinking amongst nightlife users.”

‘Say No to Drunks’ Intervention Measures

A social marketing campaign that provided posters, t-shirts and badges for staff in licensed premises clearly informing customers that it is illegal for them to serve alcohol to people who are drunk;

A new bar staff training session focusing on preventing sales of alcohol to drunks;

Increased police enforcement activity in the intervention area;

Wider public awareness raising through media engagement work; and,

The provision of breathalysers to door supervisors to support entry refusal to drunks and increase public awareness that nightlife patrons will not be permitted entry to premises if intoxicated.

Nightclub patrons have a right to be safe and secure while on the premises of the establishment that they are visiting. By law, nightclub owners and managers have a duty to protect patrons from any foreseeable harm. Additionally, dram shop laws prohibit the sale of alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons.

Bar and nightclub owners are encouraged to implement intervention measures, such as those outlined above, to prevent the sale of alcohol to intoxicated patrons and help to reduce alcohol-related assaults, injuries and deaths.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Every college campus safety policy is different, so parents and students should thoroughly research a potential institution’s policies before enrollment. US News & World Report urges parents and students to ask 10 Questions:

1. What is the college doing to cultivate a safe campus?

If parents and prospective studnets make campus safety a priority, it will require universities to raise their standards and make it a priority as well, experts say.

2. How does the school communicate with students in an emergency?

Schools may use different methods, such as emails, texts, display signs on campus or sirens to alert students during an emergency. Ideally, universities should have a plan that allows them to alert students even when they’re out of cellphone or Internet range. Learn whether students need to opt in or out of notification programs and if parents are allowed to sign up for updates.

3. Are there police stationed on campus, or does the university rely on its own security team, with city or county police stations off campus?

Prospective students should know if campus safety is monitored by private security or police and how the security team coordinates with off-campus police when a crime occurs.

4. Who investigates an allegation of sexual assault or sexual harassment at the university?

“The goal is to know that the college would handle the investigation – period – and it’s important for them to know who the Title IX coordinator is and to whom a student could complain if a student had a concern,” says Catherine Lhamon​, assistant secretary for civil rights at the U.S. Department of Education.

Students should understand how schools handle reports made online or through campus abuse hotlines. Families should also know what procedures schools have in place to provide confidentiality for the accuser and ensure the victim and the rest ​of the student body are safe, legal experts say.

5. What training does the disciplinary board receive about how to conduct a sexual assault investigation?

Online training can be a faster and easier way to meet the legal requirements for sexual violence training, but in-person training is preferable, experts​ say….Parents and students should expect their schools to ​offer training given by former sexual assault investigators such as sexual assault prosecutors and sexual assault unit detectives, he says….

6. What prevention programs do you have to educate students about safety?

Ideally, schools should offer ​bystander intervention​ – programs that teach students how to step in when they see another student in trouble – ​to students throughout their college career​, the Victim Rights Law Center’s Bruno says.​ A comprehensive program includes tips for risk reduction and prevention strategies, and suggestions for how bystanders can intervene and remain safe.

7. How do you protect students who live off campus?

If there is a chance that a prospective student won’t live on campus all four years, families should ask schools if they offer students help finding safe, reliable off-campus housing. Some schools have entire departments dedicated to helping students find off-campus housing, and some provide legal services to help students with housing agreements, experts say.​

8. Is there an on-demand transportation service frequently used by students?

Some schools have stand-alone​​ programs, agreements with local taxi services or expect students to rely on local transportation, such as a city bus or subway system, if they’re out late or leave the campus for community activities.​​​ Students should know the service’s operating hours and how far outside campus it picks up students.​

9. Is alcohol and drug abuse a significant issue on campus? How do you handle violations?

Violation statistics can be found in the annual security report, but prospective students should understand campus policies for alcohol and drug use and how violations are handled. Experts say in addition to talking to university officials​, prospective students can ask current students during college tours for an idea of the campus culture regarding alcohol and drug use and abuse.

10. How will you​ protect students during a natural disaster​?

Crime and alcohol and drug abuse are obvious safety hazards, but families should also consider how schools prepare for natural disasters. Schools should explain how they coordinate with local authorities, such as the police and fire department, what evacuation plans are in place and how often their systems and safety plans are tested, security experts say.

College students have a right to feel safe and secure while on premises. By law, colleges and universities are required to protect all students legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Following several high profile taxi cab and limousine assaults, Collective Action for Safe Spaces (CASS) launched RightRides DC, a service providing “free and safe rides home to women and LGBTQ-identifiying individuals late at night.”

“When RightRides DC gets a call, two people are dispatched in one car. One is always a woman. The task of navigating and driving are kept separate to make things go more smoothly. because there’s no arguing over routes. With more people, and the driver distracted, problems arise. With two people, the driver just drives. All volunteers, they undergo a criminal background check,” The Washington Post explains.

The program is modeled after a similar award winning program in New York City and first launched with holiday services on Halloween and New Years Eve.

RightRides DC states, “We plan to expand the service area and run the service more frequently, with the goal of operating every Saturday by next year.”

Our Legal Take

By law, all patrons of taxi, limo and ride-sharing services have a right to feel safe and secure while in the vehicle. Sadly, late-night assaults and rapes at the hands of transportation service drivers have become all too frequent and raise grave questions about employee screenings and criminal background checks.

We applaud RightRides DC for initiating a safe transportation program for women and LGBTQ patrons in DC and hope other cities will work to improve safe late-night transportation options.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Inconvenienced patrons have apparently coined the increased measures “Security Theater.” However, the efforts may have reduced the impact of the deadly January 14th attack in Jakarta.

Quartz reports, “The attackers were apparently targeting the mall, according to a security expert in The Guardian, but were stopped by security guards and taken to the checkpoint, where they set off their bombs. That suggests a potentially much deadlier attack was foiled not by special intelligence or security measures, but by the routine checks that are in place at many major public buildings around the world.”

By comparison, U.S. shopping malls are vast, open venues with multiple entry points. Mike Rozin, a security consultant for large U.S. malls, states, “In the United States, there is no appetite for making malls closed environments, where there’s one entry point with a metal detector and X-Ray. We’re far from that here, and that’s not necessarily bad. But [the more] effort we can put on the pre-incident stages — before you have a guy with a gun or explosives — the more effective it will be.”

Shopping mall and parking lot owners have a responsibility to protect patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should they fail in this duty, victims may elect to seek justice and pursue a legal claim for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of property security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Safe Bars is a Washington D.C.-based movement dedicated to preventing sexual harassment and assault in nightclubs and bars. Organizers urge nightclub owners and staff to protect their patrons from sexual aggression through training and intervention.

The Safe Bars campaign, designed by Collective Action for Safe Spaces (CASS) and Defend Yourself, “trains and empowers staff at alcohol-serving establishments to recognize and respond to incidents of sexual harassment and assault among staff and patrons.”

Safe Bars Works To:

Increase bar staff understanding of the scope and causes of unwanted sexual aggression;

Increase bar staff recognition of inappropriate behavior along the continuum of sexual and relationship violence;

Provide bar staff with the skills needed to respond to such behavior safely and appropriately, whether by stepping in as a bystander or when asked for help;

Share with bar patrons safety messages that encourage respect and lets customers know that bar staff are available for help;

Actively promote bars that adopt safety standards;

Award “Safe Bar” certification to bars that complete the training.

Why Bars?

Bars are a great place to address sexual assault prevention for a variety of reasons. They are social gathering places where alcohol is readily available, and though many people are able to safely enjoy themselves, sexual aggressors may use these types of environments as a “staging ground” for selecting, isolating, and even incapacitating their target. Nearly 1 in 5 women will be raped in their lifetime. Approximately half of all sexual assault perpetrators are under the influence of alcohol at the time of the assault. CASS regularly receives submissions from the DC community on unwanted sexual attention, including harassment and groping, that takes place in local bars and clubs.

Why Bystanders?

Bystander intervention is a key approach to preventing sexual violence. Bar owners, managers, security personnel, and other staff are in a unique position to observe and intervene to prevent sexual assault by creating a safe space for patrons. Evaluations of bystander intervention programs such as Green Dot have shown significant decreases in participants’ acceptance of rape myths and increases in both reactive and proactive bystander behaviors.

Safe Bars empowers bystanders with skills to:

Identify high-risk behaviors of potential perpetrators;

Intervene either proactively or reactively;

Overcome barriers to taking action.

Does It Work?

Safe Bars builds on the success of similar programs in Arizona and Boston. Research has shown that bartenders, bar staff and young adults who patronize bars are key populations to address in preventing sexual violence.

By law, bar and nightclub owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. We applaud Safe Bars and those nightclub owners and security managers who take a proactive approach to venue security and safety, training their staff to recognize and respond to incidents of sexual harassment and aggression before they escalate.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of nightclub security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

The Murray Law Firm is taking an active role to curb a practice commonly known as “ambulance chasing.” In each of our blogs, we inform our readers that, pursuant to the American Bar Association Rules of Professional Conduct, a lawyer or anyone acting on behalf of a lawyer may not engage a potential client through an “in-person” visit or through “live telephone” contact.

As a personal injury and wrongful death law firm, we have long been aware of the unscrupulous practices of some attorneys in this field who use unethical and illegal measures to obtain clientele.

The immoral practices of a few have, unfortunately, given rise to a public distrust of many. The term ‘ambulance chaser’ has become synonymous with a field of law, which at its best, exists solely to empower people over corporations and insurance companies, to serve those harmed by the negligence of others and to guide everyday citizens to justice through what is often a daunting and complex legal system.

We are saddened to acknowledge that some in the field have tarnished this noble mission through a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct, which is why we are proud of our active approach to ridding our community of those firms and attorneys that would harm the people and practice, which we care for so deeply.

The Murray Law Firm has achieved the Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, an honor achieved by meeting the highest ethical standards in our field, as attested to by judges and other attorneys who serve to better the practice.

In support of our commitment to high moral and ethical practices, in 2013 The Murray Law Firm created the S.A.C.’EM Campaign (Stop Ambulance Chasing Ethical Movement), which is committed to rooting out lawyers who violate Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association Rules of Professional Conduct. Together, with our clients and fellow attorneys committed to the highest ethical integrity, we fight to stop this unethical practice that has become an epidemic in the legal profession.

If you have been injured and have been directly contacted by a lawyer or an individual acting on behalf of a lawyer, please notify The Murray Law Firm at 888.842.1616 and we will assist you in reporting the lawyer or individual to the appropriate authority.

Hotel owners and managers are responsible for providing guests with a safe and secure premises during their stay. Lodging magazine encourages hotel owners to implement 5 safety precautions to protect guests during their stay:

1. Update locks. Locks that can track who goes in and out of rooms can serve as a deterrent to theft. “When employees realize there’s an audit process on door security, it makes rooms less prone to theft,” Callaghan says. Other upgrades include automatic deadbolts, which can better prevent external threats from thieves, or systems that eliminate the need for master keys.

2. Make time for safety meetings. Perhaps as part of a regular meeting, schedule time to talk about guest safety. Part of this time could also be spent watching training videos, such as those produced by Safety Source Productions. These videos, accompanied by handouts, are a low-cost way to share information about guest safety and can train employees about how to spot suspicious behavior.

3. Monitor activity with software. Having closed-circuit television to monitor the property doesn’t matter too much if no one is looking at the monitors. Recent innovations in software have solved that problem. Coupled with software, video cameras can now recognize activity in an area and provide an alert. One example: the system can alert when there is activity in a valet parking area. Other options include using a third party to monitor the exterior of the hotel. Some of these systems have voice command capability, where operators can see and warn off people captured on surveillance.

4. Evaluate and improve—quickly. Darrell Clifton, director of security for the 1,572-room Circus Circus Reno Hotel and Casino in Nevada, conducts weekly reviews of the property and even has checklists for staff to ensure areas, such as stairwells, are clean, safe, and well lit. “We concentrate on our liability,” Clifton says. “If we know of something that’s happened, if someone was robbed or there was an accident, that area is quickly addressed. We can’t ignore it. We do something immediately to protect from another event happening.”

5. Meet and greet. One of simplest, but most effective, ways of securing a property is to provide excellent customer service. “Engage customers you encounter,” Clifton says. “Ask them about their stay and if there’s anything you can do to help. You don’t have to throw more labor at security. Just make employees a little smarter.” By talking with people on your property, staff can determine if there’s a non-guest who may intend to commit a crime. Employees should also look out for people who don’t fit the profile of the hotel’s typical guest.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of property security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Gas station and convenience store robberies have increased over the last 10 years, according to FBI and NACS reports. As such, it is crucial convenience store owners take proper safety and security precautions to protect employees and patrons from violent crime.

The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) outlines preventative measures to assist store owners in deterring such crime:

Preventative Measures

Store security begins with store layout and design….The three basic rules in designing your overall safety and security, according to CPTED, are:

Territoriality: the use of physical features to show ownership over your property. It discourages outsiders by defining private space, and it allows employees to see intruders. This way, you can tell if people are there to shop or to loiter.

Define your territory with: Landscaping, Fences and Signs

If graffiti is written on your property, take a picture of it, report it to the police, and immediately remove it.

Keep the store and parking lot clean and free of litter.

Access control: a way to limit the number of people who should not be on the property. The property and store are designed for convenience to customers, but do not make it too convenient for criminals.

Limit the number of entrances and exits to the store and the parking lot.

Close off some parking lot entrances and doors at night.

Consider installing gates, locks or turnstiles, if necessary.

Surveillance: the use of physical features, such as electrical and mechanical devices, to maximize visibility.

Use effective lighting both on the lot and in the store.

Remove signs from windows to provide clear lines of visibility to the cashier.

Move displays that block visibility to the cashier from the outside.

Be alert to your surroundings and report any problems.

Train employees to be vigilant for potential threats

Robbery Deterrence

Employee Training: essential to robbery and violence deterrence. A comprehensive training program, such as the one offered by NACS offers guidance on:

Robbery deterrence measures

How to avoid violence during a robbery

What to do after a robbery

What to do in other potentially dangerous situations

Cash Control and Signage: Minimize cash available at your store can reduce the risk of robbery. The program will address deterrents such as:

Using a drop safe

Posting signs stating that the amount of cash on hand is limited

Keeping cash in registers low

Lighting: Maintain adequate lighting inside and outside the store.

Visibility: Criminals seek out locations where they can’t be easily noticed by bystanders outside the store, or by employees entering the store. People outside the store, including police, should be able to see into the store, and employees should be able to see their surroundings.

Keep windows clear of signs and merchandise

Keep shelving units low so there are no hiding places within the store

Mirrors can help, too

Escape Routes: Criminals want to blend into the surroundings after committing crimes. Make blending in more difficult by fencing the property and limiting the number of entrances and exits and making exit routes visible to others.

We Fight for Victims of Workplace Violence and Retail Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of workplace violence and retail security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Nightclub owners and managers are all too often focused on reacting to violent or dangerous situations rather than preventing them. The implementation of proper security precautions and staff awareness training can deter many crimes before they occur, potentially saving lives and preventing unnecessary injuries.

Nightclub & Bar, an online resource for the nightlife industry, recently asked club owners, “What if the discussion was about noticing the potential for an incident and intervening before one even starts?” They teamed up with Mike Adams, a Las Vegas nightclub security expert, to explore his proactive approach to creating a secure venue:

“Anytime you’re working a venue, your key process is situational awareness….Your foundation, the fundamentals of situational awareness, is to develop a baseline and then look for anything outside the normal behaviors of that baseline,” Mike Adams explains.

The Exterior

Groups of friends meeting up for a fun night out behave a certain way. Their mannerisms and their interactions with one another should set your baseline for acceptable behavior. As a doorman or security team member, you’re the club’s first line of defense. Mike suggests looking for the person in line who’s eyeballing one person rather than looking at everyone. In his experience, people who intend to have a good time are checking out who’s around them rather than focusing only on their friends or one person. Of course, someone who seems hostile or makes you uncomfortable with their behavior isn’t guaranteed to cause any problems – Mike is simply advising security team members to be aware of the markers of hostile behavior.

Additionally, if you often work the line and door, you’ll likely learn the regulars and develop a rapport. Developing a relationship with regulars affords you the opportunity to create a baseline for their behavior. Just like a relationship with your friends, you’ll notice when they feel “off” to you: lack of eye contact, looking down, stooped shoulders… Interacting with regulars will help you gain more experience with behavior, making you a more effective security team member. Remember, customer service is a part of modern day security.

The Interior

When working the inside of a nightclub, you’re in the mix. Understanding your venue, the theme of the night, the demographics your club attracts, and even the subcultures of these demographics is essential. It’s difficult to predict human behavior and create a behavioral baseline if you don’t understand how the venue’s guests should be behaving and interacting with one another. It doesn’t hurt to have at least a superficial understanding of psychology as it relates to the age groups that tend to frequent your venue. Additionally, you’ll need to be able to read body language when working the inside of a packed venue.

None of us needs a degree in psychology to know that ego and aggression are the hallmarks of many males aged 21 to 25. If you work security at a nightclub that attracts this demographic in large numbers, you know what can set off an incident….Stepping on shoes, bumping into someone, knocking a drink out of a hand accidentally… We know what to look for, and why….

A commitment to situational awareness, an understanding of human behavior, and realizing that protection is a form of customer service can help to catch minor problems before they become legal issues.

By law, nightclub owners are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. We applaud nightclub owners and security managers, like Mike Adams, who take a proactive approach to venue security and safety, training their staff to prevent incidents rather than simply reacting to them.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of nightclub security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

November marks the 35th anniversary of MADD’s Tie One On for Safety campaign, an effort to reduce impaired driving crashes during the holiday season by reminding the public to assign designated drivers when attending holiday events.

HISTORY OF TIE ONE ON FOR SAFETY

Some of the most dangerous days of the year on our nation’s roadways are between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. That is why every holiday season MADD asks you to display a MADD red ribbon in a visible location to remind others to always designate a non-drinking driver.

Started in 1986, Tie One On For Safety® is MADD’s longest running and most visible public awareness project. The name comes from the phrase “tie one on,” which is slang for drinking alcohol. But at MADD we use the phrase to remind everyone that drinking and driving don’t mix.

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE IN TIE ONE ON FOR SAFETY?

Putting safety before the party and always designate a non-drinking driver BEFORE the celebration begins to ensure everyone arrives home safely.

Display a MADD red ribbon in a visible location on your vehicles. Red ribbons, magnets and window decals are available through local MADD affiliates.

Hosting parties responsibly by offering mocktails and other non-alcoholic beverages, and by providing alternate transportation or accommodations for guests who have been drinking. Get more safe party tips at madd.org/safeparty.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Driver Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of impaired and negligent drivers. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Shopping mall crime problems tend to occur in predictable patterns that depend on the following:

The location of the mall – because they were built in middle-class affluent suburbs and were accessible only by motor vehicle, older malls tended not to attract great numbers of crime-prone groups. As demographics change and crime moves out to the suburbs form the inner city, crimes in and around shoppin g malls have increased.

The design of the mall, its grounds and facilities – design is often key to property and nuisance crimes in and around shopping malls. Nuisance behavior is most frequent near high-activity spots that attract juveniles or areas where non-buyers hang out. Thefts occur more frequently in busy stores with easy access.

CAP Index – The CAP Index is a private organization that can provide a crime vulnerability assessment for any location in the United States and Canada. This vulnerability assessment incorporates a wide variety of information from neighborhood demographic and physical housing data, National Crime Surveys, local police data and company crime reports to provide a forecast intended to indicate the likelihood of crimes occurring in any location.

CAP Index scores are scaled so a value of 100 is equal to the national, state and county average. Thus, a CAP Index of 200 is twice the average.

In determining appropriate security measures, shopping mall management should be aware of the CAP Index score for their location. Research data indicates that 65% of shopping malls are located in areas with above average crime risks. As many as 25% of shopping malls are in areas having three times or more the national crime risk. For more information about CAP Index and how to obtain a crime vulnerability assessment for a specific location, see their Internet website at www.capindex.com.

Crime Prevention Strategies for Shopping Malls

There are numerous crime prevention strategies that can serve to make commercial shopping malls safer and more secure. These strategies include the following:

Security Patrol – Provide ample uniformed security officers to patrol both the interior and exterior of the mall in well-marked, high-profile vehicles. The security staff either contract or in-house, may be augmented by off-duty sworn police officers.

Escorts – Provide escort service to both patrons and employees to their motor vehicles, particularly during late-night hours of darkness.

Community Policing Substation – In some communities, community policing substations have been located in shipping malls.

Exterior Lighting – Provide adequate exterior lighting (3-5 footcandles) in all parking and exterior areas associated with the shopping mall. A reliable lighting inspection and replacement program should also be in place.

Placement of Public Restrooms – Unfortunately, shopping malls frequently place public restrooms at the end of long service corridors in less desirable space. Isolation makes mall restrooms possible sites for anything from robbery to sexual assault. Mall maintenance or housekeeping personnel should be instructed to be in the restrooms every 15-30 minutes, and keep log sheets showing the frequency of these visits. In addition, mall security officers should also visit the restrooms periodically. A CCTV camera may be installed to monitor the corridors leading to the public restrooms, especially if the corridors twist and turn. Convex mirrors at corridor intersections can help mall patrons see around corners before they get there.

Bicycle and Mounted Patrol – For purposes of visibility and accessibility, some shopping malls have their security officers patrol the parking areas and grounds on bicycles. A small number even have horseback mounted security patrols.

Rooftop Patrol – Particularly during holiday shopping periods, when theft from motor vehicles tend to increase, shopping malls may station security or police officers on the building roof with binoculars.

Shoplifting Awareness Training – The shopping mall may provide or sponsor shoplifting awareness and prevention training for its tenants and their employees.

Exercise Walkers – Enclosed shopping malls often attract persons who want to walk within the confines of the mall for purpose of exercise. This practice should be encouraged, particularly during hours of least activity within the mall.

Use of CCTV – Closed-circuit televisions cameras can be used to monitor parking areas and common areas. The Mall of America employs approximately 130 CCTV cameras monitored by two persons at all times.

Volunteer Patrol – A few shopping malls have developed volunteer citizen patrols to assist mall security or volunteer parents to work at the shopping malls on Friday and Saturday nights to interact with youth.

Wayfinding Signs – Signs should be placed along shopping mall ring roads to assist patrons in locating parking that is closest to their destination.

Shopping Mall Patron Rights

Shopping mall and parking lot owners have a responsibility to protect patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should they fail in this duty, victims may elect to seek justice and pursue a legal claim for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of property security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns, “high-rise buildings present several unique challenges not found in traditional low-rise buildings; longer egress times and distance, evacuation strategies, fire department accessibility, smoke movement and fire control. The multiple floors of a high-rise building create the cumulative effect of requiring great numbers of persons to travel great vertical distances on stairs in order to evacuate the building.”

High-Rise Apartment Owners and Managers

It is critical that high-rise apartment owners and managers prepare themselves and their residents for a fire or emergency, providing comprehensive fire safety features in the building, training staff on emergency evacuation procedures, and educating residents on all fire safety tools and evacuation programs.

For the best protection, select a fully sprinklered building. If your building is not sprinklered, ask the landlord or management to consider installing a sprinkler system.

Meet with your landlord or building manager to learn about the fire safety features in your building (fire alarms, sprinklers, voice communication procedures, evacuation plans, and how to respond to an alarm).

Know the locations of all available exit stairs from your floor in case the nearest one is blocked by fire or smoke.

Make sure all exit and stairwell doors are clearly marked, not locked or blocked by security bars and clear of clutter.

If there is a fire, pull the fire alarm on your way out to notify the fire department and your neighbors.

If the fire alarm sounds, feel the door before opening and close all doors behind you as you leave. If it is hot, use another way out. If it is cool, leave by the nearest way out.

If an announcement is made throughout the building, listen carefully and follow directions.

Use the stairs to get out — never use the elevator unless you are directed to by the fire department.

Escape 101

Go to your outside meeting place and stay there. Call the fire department. If someone is trapped in the building, notify the fire department.

If you can’t get out of your apartment because of fire, smoke or a disability, stuff wet towels or sheets around the door and vents to keep smoke out.

Call the fire department and tell them where you are.

Open a window slightly and wave a bright cloth to signal your location. Be prepared to close the window if it makes the smoke condition worse.

Fire department evacuation of a high-rise building can take a long time. Communicate with the fire department to monitor evacuation status.

Apartment complex residents have a right to feel safe and secure while in the community. By law, apartment owners are required to protect all residents and guests legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should an apartment owner or management company fail to provide adequate safety and security measures, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

We Fight for Victims of Apartment Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of unsafe properties, and recently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for one of our Clients.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Many nursing home residents are unable to protect themselves in the event of an emergency. As such, it is crucial that nursing home owners and staff prepare by implementing proper fire detection and protection measures as well as a detailed emergency evacuation training program.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released nursing home fire safety tips for families and staff to plan and prepare for an emergency:

NFPA Message to Families: Are Your Loved Ones Safe?

Having a loved one in a nursing home can be stressful and can often make people feel somewhat helpless. Worries can intensify when you hear of the tragic nursing home fire that occurred in Hartford, Connecticut. You can play a role to increase the safety of your loved one. Here are a few things to consider when either choosing or checking on someone already in a nursing home.

Is the building well maintained? Make sure that paper and other storage items do not block doors or hallways needed for escape.

Check to make sure there is an evacuation plan in place that involves all staff and is practiced regularly.

Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, smoke detectors, and sprinklers?

Check on the staff-to-patient ratio. How many staff per resident during the day and especially at night or on weekends and holidays? Is supervisory staff available to carryout an escape plan if there is a fire?

Are there guidelines for people who smoke such as a separate room or staff supervision?

Does nursing home management take your questions regarding safety seriously and are they forthcoming with information?

You have a right to get answers regarding the safety conditions that effect your loved one. Make sure you take the time to ask.

Most people think the danger from fire is the flames, however, it is the smoke that can travel quickly to areas far from the fire. It is important to realize that people living in nursing homes may not be able to evacuate because of mobility or other disabilities. Proper planning, training, and practice of all staff are essential in order to provide for the safety of residents. It is important for staff to know that patient safety is their number one priority.

Adequate planning

Every facility should have written fire procedures that are understood and practiced by all staff. Staff should be responsible for knowing and carrying out their part of the plan. That includes doctors, nursing staff, kitchen staff, maintenance, volunteers, and others.

Response procedures should be practiced regularly

There should be a clear “code word” agreed upon beforehand for the facility to alert other staff in case of fire.

Quick response

Call out the code to alert staff.

Activate the fire alarm.

Evacuate everyone in immediate danger.

Close doors to contain smoke and fire.

Once the fire is contained to the room of origin behind closed doors, never reopen the door or reenter the room to extinguish the fire.

Close all doors to patient rooms.

In evacuating, make sure no patient is left behind.

Elderly Rights

Advocates for elderly rights and nursing home negligence attorneys at The Murray Law Firm encourage nursing home owners to implement comprehensive fire preparedness programs and training, according to NFPA codes. By implementing fire detection and protection safety measures, training nursing home staff to recognize and report fire hazards, and frequently practicing evacuation procedures, many fire-related injuries and fatalities may be prevented.

By law, property owners and managers are required to protect residents legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. This responsibility is paramount when overseeing the health and care of elderly and/or disabled residents who may not be able to care for themselves. Should a nursing home owner or manager fail in this duty, the victim and their family may elect to hold the facility civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Property Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of property negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns, “Fires in assembly occupancies have shown to be some of the most deadly when the proper features, systems and construction materials were not present. Nightclubs, theaters and auditoriums differ from office buildings because they contain a large number of people in one main space. NFPA code provisions mandate that a considerable number of safety systems and features be present in order to keep everyone safe should an unwanted fire occur. The level of safety provided is not the result of any single safety system or feature, but rather is achieved through the combination of multiple safeguards that are provided.”

New Fire Code Recommendations

In 2003, following a deadly nightclub fire in Rhode Island and a fatal nightclub crowd-crush in Chicago, the NFPA and other fire safety community organizations met to implement emergency changes to fire safety codes in nightclubs and other assembly occupancies. Changes include:

Fire sprinklers in new nightclubs and similar assembly occupancies and in existing facilities that accommodate more than 100

Building owners to inspect exits to ensure they’re free of obstructions and to maintain records of each inspection

The presence of at least one trained crowd manager for all gatherings, except religious services. For larger gatherings, additional crowd managers are required at a ratio of 1:250

Prohibit festival seating for crowds of more than 250 unless a life-safety evaluation approved by the authority having jurisdiction has been performed. Festival seating, according to NFPA 101®, is a form of audience/spectator accommodation in which no seating, other than a floor or ground surface, is provided for the audience to gather and observe a performance

NFPA Nightclub Safety Tips

Before you enter:

Take a good look. Does the building appear to be in a condition that makes you feel comfortable? Is the main entrance wide and does it open outward to allow easy exit? Is the outside area clear of materials stored against the building or blocking exits?

Have a communication planIdentify a relative or friend to contact in case of emergency and you are separated from family or friends.

Plan a meeting placePick a meeting place outside to meet family or friends with whom you are attending the function. If there is an emergency, be sure to meet them there.

When you enter:

Locate exits immediatelyWhen you enter a building you should look for all available exits. Some exits may be in front and some in back of you. Be prepared to use your closest exit. You may not be able to use the main exit.

Check for clear exit pathsMake sure aisles are wide enough and not obstructed by chairs or furniture. Check to make sure your exit door is not blocked or chained. If there are not at least two exits or exit paths are blocked, report the violation to management and leave the building if it is not immediately addressed. Call the local fire marshal to register a complaint.

Do you feel safe?Does the building appear to be overcrowded? Are there fire sources such as candles burning, cigarettes or cigars burning, pyrotechnics, or other heat sources that may make you feel unsafe? Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, sprinklers, and smoke alarms? Ask the management for clarification on your concerns. If you do not feel safe in the building, leave immediately.

During an emergency:

React immediatelyIf an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or other unusual disturbance immediately exit the building in an orderly fashion.

Get out, stay out!Once you have escaped, stay out. Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. Let trained firefighters conduct rescue operations. (Source: NFPA)

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security and Safety Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of nightclub security and safety negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, and werecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Airline employees, including ticket agents and ramp agents, handle passenger baggage at several points throughout the baggage handling process. The body postures, repetitions, and forces required to lift, lower, push, pull, or carry passenger baggage can create potentially serious ergonomic hazards for the agents. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns, “many airline workers may be unaware of the potential hazards in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to injury.”

Handling uneven loads, such as when grabbing two bags of different weights or carrying a single bag with one hand, can lead to uneven muscle exertions and poor postures, making muscles, ligaments, and discs more prone to injury.

Repeatedly handling baggage can increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Frequent lifting may not allow sufficient recovery time and increase the risk of muscle fatigue

Lifting a bag by the handle can result in awkward postures and may cause injury if handles break. (Figure 1)

Baggage straps getting snagged or caught on a beltloader may cause injury.

Falling baggage can cause injury to unsuspecting workers as well as those who try to stop or catch the falling bags.

Performing extended reaches while working in limited spaces can stress the neck and shoulders.

Reaching to push the container onto the loader can strain the back, shoulders, and arms.

Taking strollers, wheelchairs, or other oddly shaped and heavy items up or down loading bridge stairs can be dangerous, especially during wet or icy conditions

Twisting the torso while transferring baggage to the main conveyor, often several feet behind the counter.

Possible Solutions

Educate agents about proper lifting techniques to increase awareness of good work practices.

Perform stretching exercises that help loosen and relax the muscles and joints.

Use heavy luggage tags to create awareness of actual bag weights.

Park carts within three to five feet from the beltloaders to minimize carrying distances.

Use a hand truck or cart to move large and heavy bags over long distances.

Secure or remove baggage straps.

Ensure that ramp agents do not throw baggage or attempt to catch falling baggage.

Forces due to acceleration may be two to three times greater than the object’s weight.

Use kneepads to reduce contact trauma and abrasive injuries when kneeling on hard surfaces.

Allow mechanical assist devices, such as a sliding carpet, to bring baggage close to you.

Conduct preventive maintenance inspections on rollers so manual positioning of containers results in as little resistance as possible.

Use chutes, slides, or mechanical lifting devices.

Tag baggage while it is in the bagwell to avoid repeatedly lifting it to a temporary position on the floor and then lifting it again to the main conveyor.

Tag excessively heavy baggage and get help from another person or use a lifting aid when handling baggage with heavy bag tags.

Worker Rights

Airline industry employees have a right to a safe workplace. The law requires employers to provide their employees with working conditions that are free of known dangers. The OSHA law also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights under the law (including the right to raise a health and safety concern or report an injury). For more information see www.whistleblowers.gov or worker rights.

We Fight for Victims of Workplace Injuries…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of unsafe workplaces, and recently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for one of our Clients.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury for adults over 65-years-old. “These injuries are treated in an emergency department every 13 seconds and claim a life every 20 minutes.” Alarmingly, less than half of older adults injured in falls inform their doctors. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a fall prevention campaign, called STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents Deaths & Injuries), to teach elderly care providers how to identify and address fall risk factors.

Advocates for elderly rights and nursing home negligence attorneys at The Murray Law Firm encourage nursing home owners to implement fall intervention programs and training according to CDC recommendations. By training staff on fall risk hazards and prevention strategies, implementing environmental safety features, and providing residents with proper exercise programs and behavioral strategies, many fall-related injuries and fatalities may be prevented.

By law, property owners and managers are required to protect residents legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. This responsibility is paramount when overseeing the health and care of elderly and/or disabled residents who may not be able to care for themselves. Should a nursing home owner or manager fail in this duty, the victim and their family may elect to hold the facility civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Property Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of property negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Restaurants and other eating and drinking businesses employ 11.6 million people in the United States. Nearly 30% of these employees are under 20 years of age. Many young workers’ first work experience is in the restaurant industry. OSHA has launched an eTool to help young workers in the restaurant industry be safe and healthy on the job.

Visit the interactive OSHA eTool to take a quiz, play the safety puzzle game, print posters, and learn about restaurant safety.

We Fight for Victims of Workplace Injuries and Property Violence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of unsafe workplaces, and recently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for one of our Clients in Fulton County State Court.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for you or your family is highly important. You must feel confident that the attorney you hire has a complete understanding of the law applicable to your particular case, and has successful experience in handling such cases.

Important: Do not hire a lawyer who has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct!!!

You should not hire an attorney who calls you or visits you unsolicited, or anyone that contacts you directly to offer legal services. This activity is strictly prohibited by Rule 7.3 of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which states as follows:

A LAWYER “SHALL NOT” CONTACT A PROSPECTIVE CLIENT THROUGH A “LIVE TELEPHONE” OR AN “IN-PERSON” VISIT.

– RULE 7.3, ABA MODEL RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.

If an attorney, or someone acting on behalf of an attorney, contacts you in this manner, that attorney is in violation of this Rule. This unethical and unprofessional activity on the part of the lawyer is good sign that you should stay away. It is imperative that you are represented by an attorney who is capable of advocating for you within the confines of the law, and an attorney who fails to abide by the Rules of Professional Conduct is probably not the best fit. In fact, any such attorney should be immediately reported to the local State Bar Association. If you have been contacted in such an unsolicited manner, contact us and we’ll assist you in filing a report.

Contingency Fees Disclaimer: “Contingent attorneys’ fees refers only to those fees charged by attorneys for their legal services. Such fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client.”

Many travelers relax while on vacation, sometimes leaving themselves vulnerable to theft and assault. While security measures are not typically part of the hotel selection process, Independent Traveler suggests a little research may reduce a traveler’s risk of becoming a victim of hotel violence. We have highlighted some hotel safety tips below. Read the complete report at Independent Traveler.

Before Your Stay

Long before you actually book your hotel, start by doing your homework. Take a careful look at the security situation in the country and/or city you’ll be visiting….

When the time comes to book your hotel, don’t just look at rates and amenities — pay close attention to location as well. Is the hotel in an upscale residential neighborhood, a bustling business district or a seedy commercial area? Is it safe to walk around after dark? Is there a police station nearby? All of these factors could affect the likelihood of a break-in or assault during your stay. You can find neighborhood information online or in a good guidebook.

You’ll also want to find out about the hotel’s own security measures. Call ahead and ask whether the front desk is staffed 24 hours a day, if there are security guards on the premises and if there are surveillance cameras in the public areas…. Is access to guestroom floors restricted to guests only? If hotel staff can’t offer any specific examples of what they do to keep guests safe, book somewhere else.

Checking In

Don’t accept a room on the ground floor if you can avoid it. Many safety experts recommend staying somewhere between the third and sixth floors — where rooms are high enough to be difficult to break into, but not so high that they’re out of the reach of most fire engine ladders.

If you’re staying in a motel where doors open directly to the outside (rather than a hallway), see if you can get a room overlooking an interior courtyard instead of a parking lot.

Don’t let the front desk attendant publicize your room number. If he or she announces it out loud when giving you your key, ask for a different room.

While you’re at the front desk, ask what phone number you should dial in case of emergency. Is there a direct line to the hotel’s security team…?

Upon arriving at your room, immediately identify a fire escape route. Check the location of the nearest stairwell and/or emergency exit (elevators should be avoided during a fire) and figure out a couple of potential plans for escape in case the hallway is blocked in one direction or another.

Check the locks on the windows (and balcony door, if applicable) as soon as you arrive, and notify the front desk if any are not functioning. It’s a good idea to check these locks again each time you return to the room, as housekeeping may open them and forget to close them again.

During Your Stay

Keep your door locked at all times whenever you’re in your room — including any deadbolts, security chains or swinging metal security locks. Never prop your door open, no matter how briefly.

At night, leave a pair of shoes next to the bed in case you need to leave in a hurry. Keep your room key, wallet and a flashlight close to hand as well.

If someone comes to your door unexpectedly and claims to be hotel staff, call the front desk to make sure the visit was actually authorized. Never open your door to someone until you’re sure of their identity; use the peephole instead.

Protect your valuables by using the hotel safe — or, better yet, leaving them at the front desk while you’re out. Get a written receipt for anything you leave with the front desk and find out whether you’re covered in case of loss. (Many hotels do not accept liability for items left in guestroom safes.) If you’re traveling with a laptop, you may want to consider bringing a security cable to lock it to a piece of furniture. Small locks are also available for suitcases.

When you leave the room, leave the TV or radio on, or put your “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door; both of these tricks will give potential thieves the impression that you’re still there. (You can contact the front desk to arrange a housekeeping visit even if the “Do Not Disturb” sign is up.)

The hotel parking lot and hallways should be well lit. Report any outages to the front desk and ask for a security escort if you feel unsafe.

If you do experience a crime during your stay, don’t simply complain to the hotel — file a police report as well….

Know Your Rights

Generally, hotel and motel owners are required by law to protect guests from any foreseeable harm. For example, should a hotel owner be aware of prior criminal activity on property, they have a duty to take security precautions to protect guests and deter future violence. Should the hotel owner or manager fail in this duty, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Our Clients…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of hotel and motel security negligence and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. We typically represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or call at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Nursing home residents suffer frequent falls, all too often resulting in permanent disabilities, reduced quality of life and fatality. While physical health often contributes to these falls, many causes are the result of safety hazards, which may have been prevented.

The CDC urges nursing homes to implement fall prevention interventions to protect residents and reduce environmental risks. We have highlighted some of these fall hazards and prevention strategies below. Please view the full report at the CDC.

Why do falls occur more often in nursing homes?

Falling can be a sign of other health problems. People in nursing homes are generally frailer than older adults living in the community. They are usually older, have more chronic conditions, and have more difficulty walking. They also tend to have thought or memory problems, to have difficulty with activities of daily living, and to need help getting around or taking care of themselves. All of these factors are linked to falling.

What are the most common causes of nursing home falls?

Muscle weakness and walking or gait problems are the most common causes of falls among nursing home residents. These problems account for about 24% of the falls in nursing homes.

Environmental hazards in nursing homes cause 16% to 27% of falls among residents.

Medications can increase the risk of falls and fall-related injuries. Drugs that affect the central nervous system, such as sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs, are of particular concern. Fall risk is significantly elevated during the three days following any change in these types of medications.

Other causes of falls include difficulty in moving from one place to another (for example, from the bed to a chair), poor foot care, poorly fitting shoes, and improper or incorrect use of walking aids.

How can we prevent falls in nursing homes?

Fall prevention in nursing homes presents multiple challenges. It requires a combination of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and environmental changes. Fall prevention interventions can be implemented at the organizational, staff or patient levels. The most effective interventions address multiple factors or use a multidisciplinary team.

Fall interventions include:

Assessing patients after a fall to identify and address risk factors and treat the underlying medical conditions.

Educating staff about fall risk factors and prevention strategies.

Reviewing prescribed medicines to assess their potential risks and benefits and to minimize use.

Making changes in the nursing home environment to make it easier for residents to move around safely. Such changes include putting in grab bars, adding raised toilet seats, lowering bed heights, and installing handrails in the hallways.

Providing patients with hip pads that may prevent a hip fracture if a fall occurs.

Exercise programs can improve balance, strength, walking ability, and physical functioning among nursing home residents. However, such programs do not appear to reduce falls.

Teaching residents who are not cognitively impaired behavioral strategies to avoid potentially hazardous situations is a promising approach.

Elderly Rights

Advocates for elderly rights and nursing home negligence attorneys at The Murray Law Firm encourage nursing home owners to implement fall intervention programs according to these CDC guidelines. By training staff on fall risk hazards and prevention strategies, implementing environmental safety features, and providing residents with proper exercise programs and behavioral strategies, many fall-related injuries and fatalities may be prevented.

By law, property owners and managers are required to protect residents legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. This responsibility is paramount when overseeing the health and care of elderly and/or disabled residents who may not be able to care for themselves. Should a nursing home owner or manager fail in this duty, the victim and their family may elect to hold the facility civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Our Clients…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of nursing home abuse and negligence and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. We typically represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or call at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

In several countries, training programs have been developed to provide door staff with the necessary skills to perform their role. Such programs aim to raise awareness among door staff of how their own actions impact on customer behavior and to develop skills in customer relations and management. Components of training programs can include: conflict management (including deescalation techniques); appropriate searching methods; drug and alcohol awareness; civil and criminal law; health and safety at work; and emergency evacuation management. In Canada, the Safer Bars program…aimed to reduce aggression in bars in Toronto through the provision of training for bar owners and staff. The program showed a significant effect in reducing severe and moderate aggression in bars….

In the UK, use of door staff is often a condition of bar and nightclub licensing and basic door staff training is a requirement of employment….Now all door staff working in England and Wales must hold a licence issued by the National Security Industry Authority. Individuals with previous convictions for offenses such as violence and drug dealing are excluded, and all license holders must have undertaken training. Furthermore, in a predominantly male profession, women are being encouraged to train as door staff with free training for female door staff having been provided in London by the Security Industry Authority….

In the absence of similar legislation in New Zealand, a voluntary code of conduct and a training programme has been established by the New Zealand Security Association (NZSA). The NZSA was created to promote professionalism in the security industry, set minimum standards for its members, and develop and provide training….

In Sweden…the STAD project incorporated door staff training into wider measures to create a safer nightlife environment in Stockholm, such as the provision of late night transport. The evaluation found a 29% reduction in violent crime following implementation of the project.

In the UK, communication between door staff and other agencies working in nightlife has been increased in many areas through the development of Pubwatch schemes. These schemes bring together staff in bars and nightclubs, police and other agencies…within local areas and typically include the establishment of a dedicated radio network between members and a banning system to prevent persistent troublemakers from using bars and nightclubs.

There Future

The rapid expansion of nightlife environments in many countries and corresponding increases in alcohol-related problems such as violence has meant that the need for security in nightlife has increased. Huge demands can be placed on limited police resources during busy nightlife periods, and with door staff often outnumbering police in nightlife areas, their role in violence prevention is one that should be recognised and strengthened. By its very nature, the role of door staff means they are frequently placed in aggressive situations and without appropriate training and management, door staff may not only be ineffective at preventing violence but may actually act as a contributing factor. However, research has shown that door staff training programs can be effective in giving individuals the skills they require to carry out their role and in preventing violence. Further, registration schemes can give authorities the power to prevent those with histories of violence and other criminal activity from working as door staff, and to require training as a condition of employment. Local police, licensing officials and other agencies should work with door staff to ensure the added resource they can bring to maintaining safety and reducing violence in the night time environment is utilized to its full potential.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Nightclub Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of nightclub security negligence and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. We typically represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or call at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Location. Price. Amenities. These are items most travelers look for when selecting a hotel or motel. Requirements that may not make a traveler’s hotel wishlist are: bright lighting; surveillance cameras; 24 hour security; and room key-controlled entry to the property.

A CBS This Morning report warns, “Far too many people let their guard down when traveling, especially when it comes to their hotel.”

Read the full report for “a breakdown of everything you need to know about hotel safety in the U.S.”:

American Hotel Security is Lacking

Although 9/11 was a wakeup call for everybody, most officials in the hotel industry in the U.S. aren’t willing to spend money on security.

Hotels are filled with vulnerabilities: multiple entrances and exits, driveways, underground entries, spacious and busy lobbies, non-guests who eat at the restaurant and come in for conferences and events. But those risks are also the hotels’ livelihood: it’s not in a hotel’s best interest to scare away potential business by employing armed guards, installing metal detectors or X-rays, limiting entrances, or even checking IDs.

In fact, security experts don’t know of ANY hotel in the US that has implemented high-security measures that we see in Asia and the Middle East: metal detectors, explosive vapor devices, barriers in front of the hotel, screening of bags, screening under vehicles, or “hardening” glazing structures of windows and entranceways.

In general, the most an American hotel will do is implement increased security cameras, limit access into the building, require key cards to get to guest room floors, and train staff to be alert to odd behavior. Until recently, even security cameras or CCTV on guest room floors was considered taboo. The measures that have been implemented also help prevent petty crime and assault, so the hotels’ motives for doing so are manifold.

Most U.S. hotels are mid-market products where you won’t see anything more than cameras for loss prevention and maybe locking perimeter doors. It’s the higher-end hotels that have implemented any significant measures—and much of that is to block out the riff-raff and ensure privacy.

Don’t Worry, Your Personal Information is NOT Stored on Key Cards

In 2003, the Pasadena police department police issued a warning about plastic hotel card keys. According to this message, a local Doubletreehotel had key cards that contained encoded personal information such as your name, a partial home address, the hotel room number, your check out date…and your credit card number. Well, simply put, hotels do not put your personal information on the card. Key cards actually use RFID technology, or a system that generates a code that the lock recognizes, NOT your room number.

According to Snopes.com, what happened was the police had been made aware that a keycard could be wiped clean and then reused by identity thieves to store information, NOT that the hotel had put the information on there. Any blank magnetic card could be used for this purpose. But the information got released and became so widespread that the Pasadena police had to issue a retraction in 2009: “As of today, detectives have contacted several large hotels and computer companies using plastic card key technology and they assure us that personal information, especially credit card information, is not included on their key cards.”

HOWEVER…Hotel Locks Aren’t as Secure as You Think

A Mozilla developer and security researcher demonstrated the security in one of the most common key card locks in hotels. At the Black Hat Las Vegas security conference in July, Cody Brocious reverse engineered the locks by inserting a small, homemade device into the keycard lock, read the digital key that triggers the lock, and opened it. He explained that it was “stupidly simple” to exploit the locks. Onity locks can be found in more than 4 million hotel rooms around the world.

In September, there was a there was a string of break-ins at a Houston Hyatt in which the thief hacked the lock with a digital tool that triggered the door to open. The hotel itself took measures for a temporary fix by puttying the vulnerable port on the door. Since then Onity has been offering to replace the circuit boards for locks bought after 2005; older models will replace the locks for a fee, or will send a plastic plug to cover the port.

Hotel Safes Aren’t as Safe as You Think

The innkeeper liability laws limit how much the hotel is responsible for items left in your hotel room–even if it’s in the safe. Even worse, they’ll often charge you for the privilege of using that safe. The amount varies by state, but you can usually find the exact amount posted on the back of your hotel room door or in another conspicuous place. You’re better off storing valuables like passports in the front-desk safe. Confirm how much they’re liable for, and a get a written receipt of the items you’ve left there. If you have to leave items in the room, like a laptop, consider storing it in a slashproof bag. Then use a cable lock that holds the zipper shut and secures the bag to a stationery piece of furniture.

That Room with a View Can be Deadly

There’s not a fire department in the country that can easily fight a fire above the eighth floor, so ask for a lower floor.

Find out what kind of fire safety devices are in place. Every hotel should have hard-wired, single-station smoke detectors in each guestroom. Those more than three stories should have an automatic sprinkler system with a head in each room.

You know the map on the door that show the nearest exits? It’s there for a reason. Then you actually have to find those exits. You should be able to locate at least two exits, in case one is blocked, and count how many doors there are between your room and the exits.

Keep your room key and a small flashlight in your shoes by your bed, in case you have to make a quick escape. Bottom line: a hotel fire is serious business, but there are steps you can take to make sure you’re as prepared as possible.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Our Clients…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of hotel and motel security negligence and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. We typically represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or call at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) reminds us, it is all too easy for a hotel vacation or business trip to turn to tragedy. While hotel and motel security begins with the owner and management, these basic guest safety guidelines may reduce guests’ risk of becoming a victim of theft or assault:

Guest Safety Tips

Don’t answer the door in a hotel or motel room without verifying who it is. If a person claims to be an employee, call the front desk and ask if someone from their staff is supposed to have access to your room and for what purpose.

Keep your room key with you at all times and don’t needlessly display it in public. Should you misplace it, please notify the front desk immediately.

Close the door securely whenever you are in your room and use all of the locking devices provided.

Check to see that any sliding glass doors or windows and any connecting room doors are locked.

Don’t invite strangers to your room.

Do not draw attention to yourself by displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

Place all valuables in the in-room safe or safe deposit box.

When returning to your hotel or motel late in the evening, be aware of your surroundings, stay in well-lighted areas, and use the main entrance.

Take a few moments and locate the nearest exit that may be used in the event of an emergency.

If you see any suspicious activity, notify the hotel operator or a staff member.

The Murray Law Firm represents victims of hotel and motel violence and security negligence. We urge guests to look for the following security measures and access controls when selecting a hotel or motel:

Bright lighting in all parking areas, outdoor walkways, indoor hallways, and common areas.

Surveillance cameras and 24-hour security patrols.

Building access controls, such as an entry gate, security guard, guest card controlled entry to all buildings and common areas.

Hotel room access controls, such as a deadbolt lock, a door viewer, a steel frame door, window locks, and a security bar for any sliding patio doors.

Call the local police department if you’d like to check on crime reports for a particular property.

Hotel and motel owners and managers are required by law to provide a safe premises for all guests legally on their property and to prevent foreseeable third-party criminal attacks, such as rapes, shootings, assaults, or robberies. For example, should a proprietor have reason to anticipate a criminal act based on knowledge of a security lapse or a previous crime on or near property, he or she then has a duty to exercise ordinary care to deter such crime and protect those legally on their premises from harm.

We Fight for Victims of Hotel and Motel Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of hotel violence and security negligence, and we offer our legal assistance if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Most mall-related crime occurs in parking lots, making shoppers and drivers navigating these lots vulnerable to theft, assault and vehicle break-ins. Law enforcement officials who patrol the country’s busiest malls have coordinated with Consumer Reports to help shoppers across the country reduce their risk of becoming victims. Their advice appeared in the December 2013 issue of Consumer Reports Magazine:

Be Choosy Where You Park

Sure, that isn’t always easy. But it could be worth driving around a little to find a spot in a populated area instead of settling on one in a dark, remote location, especially if you are alone. “Park in a well-lit area because criminals hate light; they don’t want to be identified,” said Officer Heidi Miller of the Police Department in Bloomington, Minn., home of the Mall of America.

Lock and Stow

Many parking-lot thefts occur because drivers neglect to perform the simplest task: locking the car and closing the windows. Don’t allow your car to be an easy target for thieves. Hide valuables such as GPS devices, cell phones, laptops, and ­iPods. If your GPS is mounted to your windshield, pull it off and try to clean off the suction marks so that thieves don’t break into the car looking for it. “Don’t even leave the GPS cable,” Miller said, because criminals think you’re simply putting the device away in your glove box or center console. In addition, if you have an aftermarket stereo with a removable faceplate, Miller suggests removing the face and taking it with you.

Stay Focused

“People walking through the parking lot don’t pay as much attention as they used to,” Capt. Robert Guidetti of the Paramus, N.J., Police Department said. Instead they are checking e-mail or making calls. Look to your front, side, and rear when walking to and from a store. Being aware of your surroundings lessens your chances of becoming a victim or getting struck by a car, Guidetti says.

Assume You’re Watched

Criminals watch for shoppers who put purchases in their car or trunk, then walk back into the store. Once you’re gone, it can take only moments to break in and grab items. If you need to stow packages while shopping, repark your car in a different location, away from anyone who could have been observing, says Detective Bob Welsome of the New York City Police Department. Other options are to find out whether the mall has storage lockers available or ask security to hold your packages until you’re ready to leave.

Don’t Dally

“Walk like you have a purpose,” said Officer Harry Nuskey of the Upper Merion Township, Pa., Police Department, near the popular Mall of Prussia. “Don’t wander, even if you don’t know where your car is.” Have your car key in hand before you leave the store. It can also act as a weapon if necessary, Guidetti says. Once in your car, lock the doors immediately and drive off. Don’t sit and do other things. That will lessen the chance of you becoming a target.

Beware of Stranger Danger

If you are approached or chased, yell or scream to get attention or go back to the store and alert security. If you are followed while driving, go to an open gas station or a populated area with plenty of light, Miller says. “Your best defense is a well-charged cell phone,” Miller said. “Get on the phone and call 911.”

Parking lot owners and managers are required by law to provide a safe premises for all patrons legally on their property and to prevent foreseeable third-party criminal attacks, such as rapes, shootings, assaults, or robberies. For example, should a proprietor have reason to anticipate a criminal act based on knowledge of a security lapse or a previous crime on or near property, he or she then has a duty to exercise ordinary care to deter such crime and protect those legally on their premises from harm.

We Fight for Victims of Parking Lot Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of parking lot violence and security negligence, and we offer our legal assistance if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

While a place we visit daily may not feel dangerous, many workplace parking lots leave employees vulnerable to theft, assault or vehicle break-ins. The parking lot design, location, security measures, and hours of operation can present or deter the risk of workplace violence.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has compiled a list of safety guidelines to help employees protect themselves and reduce their risk of becoming victims of parking lot violence:

General Employee Parking Lot Do’s and Dont’s

Always:

Park near your building in a highly visible and well-lit area.

Park near the parking attendant or a well-lit exit.

Use the main building entrance — avoid secluded exits.

Keep your valuables, including purses and recent purchases, out of sight.

Lock the doors and roll up windows once you are in the vehicle.

Have a plan ahead of time. Know where you can go for safety and how to call for help.

Never:

Do not park next to large vehicles as they will block your sight.

Do not have a personal identification tag on your key ring.

Do not approach someone loitering near your vehicle. Walk to a safe place such as a lighted store, house or building. Call the police.

Workplace Parking After-Dark or in High-Risk Neighborhoods

Always:

Try to walk with a friend, co-worker or security officer. Give your escort a ride back to the main entrance so they do not have to walk back alone.

If you have to walk alone:

Have a co-worker watch you from a window.

Wave to them on the way to your vehicle.

Wave even if no one is watching to give the illusion that someone is watching you.

Stay on well-lit streets and in the center of the sidewalk. Stay away from hiding spots, such as bushes, doorways, alleys and parked cars. Cross the road if necessary.

Be alert to your surroundings. Walk with confidence. Keep your head up and look around.

Never:

Do not dig in your purse or bag.

Do not wear headphones, use a cellphone or other distraction.

Do not carry heavy briefcases or bags that may get in the way.

Approaching Your Vehicle

Be prepared when you leave your business or when leaving your car for work. Have ready:

Your keys to unlock the vehicle.

Your keys or cardkey to unlock the building doors.

A whistle or other personal alarm.

As you approach your car, look around, inside and even glance underneath for people who may be present. If you are suspicious, walk away. Go to a safe place and call for help.

Parking lot owners and managers are required by law to provide a safe premises for all patrons legally on their property and to prevent foreseeable third-party criminal attacks, such as rapes, shootings, assaults, or robberies. For example, should a proprietor have reason to anticipate a criminal act based on knowledge of a security lapse or a previous crime on or near property, he or she then has a duty to exercise ordinary care to deter such crime and protect those legally on their premises from harm.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Parking Lot Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of parking lot security negligence. We offer our legal assistance, if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

All families have a right to provide a safe and secure home for their children. Yet, apartment complex security is all too often out of the hands of residents, leaving tenants at increased risk of intrusion or burglary. Safewise offers renters the following guide to selecting a safe apartment complex and tips on keeping your apartment home secure:

Before Moving In

Before deciding on a new residence, it is important to consider security. Follow these guidelines before signing a lease to help protect yourself and your family.

1. Research Local Crime

When you think you’ve found your dream apartment, check local crime data in its vicinity. Make sure you know about any troubling activities in the area before committing to a lease. Talk to the local police and your future landlord and neighbors to get an honest picture of what life will be like in your new place. Websites like CrimeReports.com, CrimeMapping.com, and SpotCrime.com can give you a good idea of the local crime history in almost any community.

2. Test Lighting

Robbers and intruders prefer to sneak around in poorly-lit or dark areas. Therefore, when considering an apartment, check the entrances, hallways, walkways, parking areas, elevators, stairways, mail areas, and laundry rooms to make sure they have enough lighting at night. The fewer places an offender has to hide, the safer you’ll be.

3. Observe General Upkeep

Take in the general look and feel of your new place. Broken windows, cracked drywall, or water stains could show a lack of concern from the landlord. Check to see if the lawn and landscaping are well-kept. If the landlord can’t take care of basic maintenance, he or she probably isn’t concerned with general security.

4. Check Apartment Entrances

When looking at apartments, consider the security of the building. Many times, an outside entry door will require a key, pass code, or buzz-in to access the hallways and doors of the actual apartments. This way, residents control who can approach their apartment door, reducing loitering, break-ins, and solicitors.

5. Try the Peephole

A peephole can keep you and your family safe by allowing you to see who’s at your door before you open it. If your door does not have a peephole, inquire about having one installed before you move in. When a questionable character is at your door, a peephole will help you and your children avoid any compromising situations.

6. Get New Door Locks

Replacing your locks reduces the risk of unwanted persons being able to access your new place. Many landlords say they’ve replaced the locks, but sometimes apartment managers will just rotate the old locks between apartments, and extra keys are not always returned. When you move into new housing, you never know how many keys have gone missing or how many previous tenants may still have keys. Ask your landlord about having your locks replaced with brand new locks, not redistributed old ones. Don’t risk somebody being able to return to your apartment with an old key.

7. Examine Window Locks

Good window locks keep intruders from gaining easy access to your residence. This is especially true for windows on the ground level, but all windows should be properly checked—you’d be surprised how determined burglars can be. Treat all windows as potential entry points, and make sure all window locks are working properly and cannot be manipulated from the outside.

8. Note Fire Escapes

In apartment complexes, exterior fire escapes can be lifesavers during an emergency, but their access to windows and balconies can also attract burglars. If your apartment has a fire escape, make sure it is stored properly off the ground, so intruders can’t reach your apartment.

Robbers and intruders prefer to sneak around in poorly-lit or dark areas. Therefore, when considering an apartment, check the entrances, hallways, walkways, parking areas, elevators, stairways, mail areas, and laundry rooms to make sure they have enough lighting at night. The fewer places an offender has to hide, the safer you’ll be.

After Moving In

Once you’ve found your dream apartment, keep your family and valuables safe with ongoing security measures.

1. Buy Additional Locks

For added safety, consider installing a deadbolt and chain lock if your door doesn’t already have them. A deadbolt is more secure and difficult to pick than a standard doorknob lock, because the deadbolt only opens by rotating the lock cylinder, whereas a spring bolt lock can retracted by applying force to the bolt itself. Additionally, a chain lock provides an extra layer of security when opening your door, allowing you to open your door a crack to talk to a stranger or ask for identification, before opening up completely.

2. Bolster Sliding Doors

Balcony doors are great for sunshine and views, but they can pose a hazard if they are not properly secured. An unsecured sliding door can provide an intruder with a relatively untraceable and quiet entrance to your place. While it’s important to always lock your balcony door when it’s not in use, many sliding doors have inadequate locks and come off their tracks with just a nudge. For optimal security, make sure to arm your sliding door with an inside bar lock or a pole on the track. You can also install a secondary locking mechanism with a metal pin inserted through the doorframe and into the sliding door.

3. Invest in Good Blinds

Good blinds may prevent robbers from looking inside your home and being tempted by all the valuables they see. Install blinds that completely block the view from outside, and make sure to close them when you go out. That way, you’ll keep wandering eyes from scanning your valuables and reduce your risk of break-ins.

4. Use a Safe

A safe can be a last line of defense to protect your most valuable and irreplaceable possessions. Items such as jewelry, cash, firearms, and sensitive documents can be locked away in a fireproof case. Safes come in all sizes and range in price from under $100 to thousands of dollars. Find a safe that fits your budget and needs, and talk to your landlord about bolting it to a floor or wall, so a burglar can’t pick it up and take it. While a safe can’t guarantee the absolute protection of your property, it can be effective at hiding items from thieves who are just looking to grab valuables in plain sight and escape quickly.

5. Get Renters Insurance

Renters insurance will protect the value of your possessions in case they are stolen or destroyed by a disaster. Your landlord may have an insurance policy, but those generally only cover the building you live in, not your personal belongings. Many insurance companies offer policies specifically for renters that run about $20 a month and cover all your property at the full replacement cost. Renters insurance can also protect you in case of a liability lawsuit where you are deemed responsible for the damage of another tenant’s property. You may think you don’t own very much, but consider the cost of replacing everything you own in the event of a theft, fire, or severe weather. If you wouldn’t be able to recover from the loss, then renters insurance is a good option.

6. Install a Security System

Renters are 85% more likely to experience a home invasion than those who own their homes, and while many security companies won’t sell to renters, some will (source). In the past, security systems were not renter-friendly due to an intrusive installation process, but now renters have several options.

Advocates for victims of apartment violence and security negligence at The Murray Law Firm urge our readers to take apartment safety into their own hands and to work with their apartment owners, managers and neighbors to create a safe and secure home for their families.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Apartment Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of violence and apartment security negligence. We offer our legal assistance, if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

A recent rise in hotel and apartment complex swimming pool drownings has illuminated the critical need for property owners to follow state and federal pool safety regulations.

The CDC warns, “Aquatics professionals have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy swimming environment for their patrons. Maintaining good water quality requires pool operators and staff to have specific skills.”

Water Quality

This critical responsibility of monitoring water quality is carried over to apartment and hotel owners who provide swimming opportunities to their residents and guests. Cloudy water can prohibit the safe monitoring of swimmers in the pool and the fast rescue of swimmers in distress. Dangerous chemical levels can cause serious injury to lungs, eyes and skin. High bacterial levels can spread rash and illness. As such, it is imperative that apartment and hotel owners employ aquatics professionals to monitor water quality and ensure water visibility is clear and chemical and bacterial levels are safe.

Pool safety rules, including maximum occupancy, hours of operation, life guard availability, and prohibited items or behavior, should be visibly posted and enforced. Overcrowding can lead to drownings and poor swimmer visibility. As such, pool area occupancy rates must meet fire codes and be enforced by staff. Pool access should be properly secured after hours. Hazardous items and behavior, such as glass or diving in shallow waters, should be prohibited and offenders should be removed.

Victims of Swimming Pool Negligence

Unfortunately, a CDC report reveals, “Almost 1 in 8 (12.1% or 13,532 of 111,487) routine pool inspections conducted during 2008 identified serious violations that threatened public health and safety and resulted in an immediate closure.”

Apartment and hotel owners have a duty to protect residents and guests legally on property from any foreseeable harm. Should these property owners fail to provide adequate swimming pool safety measures, victims may elect to pursue a legal claim for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occur as a consequence. Under such a claim, victims and their families may be entitled to substantial compensation. Given the complexities of pursuing such a potential case, it is imperative that the victims retain an experienced attorney who can ensure the preservation of any and all evidence that may support such a claim. Based upon its prior experience in handling apartment and hotel negligence claims, The Murray Law Firm suggests that photographs and a through, unbiased inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately, before any evidence may be repaired, damaged or destroyed.

We Fight for Victims of Apartment and Hotel Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of apartment and hotel negligence. We offer our legal assistance, if desired. We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephoneat 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The DC Metropolitan Police Department has released their Best Practices for Nightlife Establishments report, outlining how nightclub owners can develop a safe nightlife atmosphere for patrons. While the full report addresses a variety of crucial nightclub security guidelines, including age verification, intoxication, employee training, and security procedures, this article specifically focuses on the DCPD best practices for preventing nightclub sexual assault.

It is your responsibility as establishment owners and managers to ensure that your customers enjoy the evening as safely as possible. These precautions help create a positive relationship between you and your neighbors, and they help ensure that your establishment is free from any illegal activity. –DC Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier

Developing a Safe Nightlife Atmosphere: Preventing Sexual Assault

Management and employees can help to prevent their premises from being exploited by sexual aggressors, who may seek to take advantage of vulnerable patrons. Alcohol is the most common substance aggressors use to facilitate sexual assault. Both the aggressor and the target may have impaired judgment and lower awareness as a result of alcohol consumption, leading to a greater chance of sexual violation anywhere along the spectrum from harassment to violent assault. However, the environment around a sexual aggressor can make a difference in their behavior.

Young women are statistically most likely to be the target of unwanted sexual attention and aggression, but it’s important to keep in mind that anyone may be a target, including patrons of gay establishments. Aggressors often present themselves as friendly, seeking to get to know a target, buying them drinks, or otherwise displaying a romantic interest. Aggressors may also engage in unwanted contact such as pressing up against someone on the dance floor, groping, or “up- skirt” grabbing. If bar staff notice any of these behaviors, it may be useful for them to ask the target if s/he would like any intervention and/or keep a close eye on the situation in case it escalates.Escalation can also take place off-premises. A common scenario is for an aggressor to initiate an inter- action on the premises, isolate the target from her friends, and then persuade or pressure the target to leave with him. Employees should be attuned to behavior that seems overly familiar or aggressive under the circumstances, especially if the potential target is visibly intoxicated or seems to be impaired.

Establishment personnel should offer to call a cab for the vulnerable or impaired person, and closely observe as patrons leave to see if they seem to be able to navigate safely. Security personnel at the door or outside are well positioned and should observe when patrons leave. They should also take general note of whom patrons arrive with and whether they leave with the same group or someone else. Note that aggressors may seek to get targets drunk or drugged, encourage them to get some air, and then pull up in a car or hail a cab to take them away.

If establishment personnel sense that something is awry, either when an aggressor is purchasing drinks for a potential target who is visibly intoxicated, isolating her from her friends, or trying to leave with her, personnel should make it clear to the aggressor that they have been observed by asking them in front of others how they’re doing or if they need some help. Staff can also use distraction techniques to separate the target from the aggressor, such as telling the potential target that her friends are looking for her. If possible, employees should make a note of the circumstances, the descriptions of the parties, or any other information that could become relevant at a later time. However, establishment managers and staff should make every effort to keep patrons safe and proactively intervene if they observe any suspicious or problematic behaviors.

Encourage groups to designate one person as a chaperone and perhaps identify this person with a wristband. This person could be served non-alcoholic beverages at a discount for the night.

For prevention of assaults on the premises, maintain surveillance cameras outside restroom doors, and consider employing a restroom attendant. Ensure that restrooms are used by the appropriate gender. If the restrooms are gender-segregated, monitor to ensure that men do not enter the women’s restroom (keeping in mind that some people who appear to be one gender may in fact be another). Surveillance cameras should be monitored throughout the night, especially near closing time. Ensure that storage areas and other restricted areas are kept locked and secured. Closed darkened areas create a potential danger.

Support staff, including porters, barbacks, busboys, and kitchen staff, should receive sexual assault awareness training that will help them be aware of patron behavior and recognize potential perpetrator behaviors that may lead to sexual assault, especially as these employees work in or pass through areas that are dark or restricted. As part of their training, employees should be instructed to immediately report any suspicious or problematic behavior to a supervisor or manager.

Establishments can send a clear message that there is zero tolerance for sexual assault by posting signs letting patrons know that their safety is a priority, and including on the signs who among the staff a patron can approach if they need assistance.

Perhaps most important, management and employees should trust their instincts regarding possible predatory behavior they may observe. If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Management should communicate to employees, ideally by establishing a written policy, that they support proactive efforts to address suspicious, aggressive, or predatory behavior. If possible, employees should make notes of any situation they observed for later reference if needed.

By law, nightclub owners and managers are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should a nightclub owner or manager fail in this legal duty, victims of nightclub sexual assault may elect to pursue a legal claim for their injuries and suffering. Under such a claim, victims of sexual assault may be entitled to an award of damages that could include, among other items, substantial monetary compensation for: pain and suffering; past and future medical expenses; loss of wages and future earning capacity; disfigurement; and, mental anguish.

Photographs and a thorough inspection of the scene will need to be performed on behalf of the victim immediately before any evidence, such as register receipts or surveillance footage, may be destroyed. As such, it is imperative that nightclub sexual assault victims speak with an experienced premises liability firm immediately to ensure their interests are protected.

We are here to Help. Contact us for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of nightclub sexual assault and security negligence in and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Following a spree of violent nightclub crime, which resulted in the death of two young women, the NYPD has formulated a set of best practices “in order to guide the nightlife industry in making itself more accountable and preventing the kind of crime and disorder problems that bring it into conflict with law enforcement agencies.”

The Murray Law Firm represents many victims and families who have been devastated by nightclub violence. It is our hope that nightclub owners and managers across the country will collaborate with their local police departments to implement the security measures and training necessary to deter crime and protect their patrons. We have highlighted some of the NYPD’s best nightclub security practices below.

Nightclub Owners: NYPD Nightclub Security Best Practices

There should be a minimum of one licensed and trained security guard in every premise when 75 or more patrons are present at the same time. For larger premises, there should be one such security guard for every 75 club patrons present. Discretion should be used by management to determine the appropriate number of security based on the event or crowd to ensure safety and lawfulness.

Security guards should be trained in techniques to de-escalate potential violent encounters and difficult situations.

Establishment policy should mandate that security personnel separate and remove all potentially violent patrons in a manner consistent with the law in order to prevent a continuation of violent activity inside or outside the club. Establishments must call 9-1-1 to report criminal activity and may call 9-1-1 or otherwise notify police for assistance in these circumstances.

It is recommended that security guards be distinctively and uniformly attired–that is very easily identified.

It is recommended that security guards be distributed evenly throughout the establishment and not just at the door.

It is recommended that properly working and maintained digital cameras be mounted in front of the establishment (both inside and outside), at all entry doors, and outside the bathroom doors.

It is helpful to learn if all of these efforts are working. To that end, establishments should hire an independent security consultant to ensure club security and to see that the establishment is adhering to other laws and policies, including laws prohibiting sales to minors.

Establishments should ensure that levels of lighting inside and outside the establishment are sufficient for observation by security.

All those awaiting admission should be placed in a line that does not block the sidewalk. All individuals in admission lines should be informed that if they are not orderly, they will not be admitted. Individuals who will not be admitted should be encouraged to leave the area.

At closing, security should ensure orderliness when patrons are exiting the establishment.

If metal detectors are used, every patron should be subjected to magnetometer searches in accordance with establishment policy. VIPs, DJs, entourages, and so on should not receive special treatment.

Spot checks of employees should be conducted to ensure compliance with establishment policies and applicable laws and rules, including integrity tests for false IDs and underage sales.

The use of ID scanning machines is strongly recommended. Although they do not reject legal IDs used by other individuals, nor are they foolproof in rejecting fake IDs, they are extremely helpful in recording who is entering the establishment.

Establishments should not admit anyone under 21, except for establishments operating primarily as restaurants during those hours in which meals are served.

If bottle purchases are allowed, establishments should not admit anyone under 21. Establishments must take sufficient steps to ensure that tables are closely monitored to prevent underage drinking or overconsumption.

Many local law enforcement agencies provide workshops and training seminars for nightclub owners, managers and staff. Nightclub owners should connect with their local police department to enroll in, or help create, a nightclub security and safety training program.

Victims of Nightclub Violence

By law, nightclub owners and managers are required to protect all patrons legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should a nightclub owner or manager fail in this legal duty, victims and their families may elect to pursue a legal for any injuries or wrongful deaths, which occurred as a consequence. Under such claims, the victims may be entitled to an award of damages that could include, among other items, substantial monetary compensation for: pain and suffering; past and future medical expenses; loss of wages and future earning capacity; disfigurement; and, emotional distress.

Photographs and a thorough inspection of the scene will need to be performed on behalf of the victim immediately before any evidence, such as register receipts or surveillance footage, may be destroyed. As such, it is imperative victims speak with an experienced premises liability firm immediately to ensure their interests are protected.

We are here to Help. Contact us for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of nightclub violence and security negligence in and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

A Jefferson City Police Apartment Security & Safety report warns, “There are some criminals who prey specifically upon apartments and condominiums….You should be aware of, and periodically review, the security and safety of your apartment and apartment building. In rental buildings, the building owner and management are responsible for security.”

Apartment complex owners and management companies may implement a variety of security precautions to meet this crucial responsibility. According to JCPD, this duty typically involves:

ensuring that security systems meet or exceed security requirements for apartment buildings, such as deadbolt locks on doors, good lighting and window locks;

ensuring that security systems provide reasonable protection for all residents — in their apartments and in common areas, such as parking garages and elevators;

conducting regular inspections to spot and fix security problems, such as broken locks or burned­out exterior lights, and asking residents to submit security concerns or suggestions as part of continuing maintenance;

The Jefferson City Police Department recommends particular attention to the following security measures:

Apartment Corridor & Balcony Doors

Doors are a burglar’s first choice of entry. Your apartment door should have a good deadbolt lock. One feature to look for is lock throw — the length the locking bolt protrudes from the door into the surrounding door frame when placed in the full lock position. Test this by locking the door while it is open — a good deadbolt lock protrudes 35 mm (1 1∕2 in.) or more when fully extended. A strong deadbolt lock also has a jimmy­ proof strike plate (the part of the lock assembly mounted in the door frame to receive the bolt). The strike plate should be secured to the door framing by screws at least 50–75 mm (2–3 in.) long. This ensures the strike plate is fastened to the structure of the wall and not just the door frame….Install a door viewer (peephole) in your entrance door, if you do not already have one.

Equip balcony doors with the same type of deadbolt locks recommended for corridor doors. There is special hardware to secure sliding balcony doors but a simple, effective, inexpensive solution is a sturdy piece of wood in the door’s track to prevent the sliding door from opening.

Windows

Make sure all windows close fully, that the locking hardware is in good condition and that it is easy to lock the window when you shut it. Ensure that a thief cannot lift a horizontal window out of its track.

Electronic Building Entry Systems

The front door entry system of most apartment buildings allows a resident to remotely let guests into the building. These systems are only effective if the front door locking system functions and intruders cannot take advantage of an open door to enter the building (known as piggy­backing).

Elevators & Lobbies

Elevators and lobbies should be well lit, day and night. Interior lighting in lobbies and corridors should not be on an accessible switch but should instead be controlled by a timer or photocell….Possible hiding places under stairwells should be eliminated. Elevators should be equipped with both a telephone and alarm or duress buttons connected to the resident manager’s unit and an outside central monitoring station. Lobbies should have glass doors, glass in exterior doors and/or side lights.

Laundry Rooms & Workout Rooms

Laundry rooms in apartment or condominium complexes can represent special security problems. Ideally, the entrance into laundry rooms should be from the exterior of the building and clearly visible. Laundry room door locks should require a tenant or owner key. The laundry room door should have a window in it. A duress alarm and/or telephone should be available in the laundry room. Interior lighting should be wired to remain on permanently during hours of operation. Residents should be encouraged not to use the laundry facilities alone or during late night hours. The same crime prevention or security recommendations applicable to laundry rooms are also applicable to common exercise or workout rooms.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of apartment violence and security negligence in and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Children Attend Prayer Rally to End Violence at River Glenn Apartments. (The Augusta Chronicle)

Every family has a right to raise their children in a safe, secure environment. Yet, as apartment violence soars across the country, many apartment complex residents live terrified for the safety of their families. The violence must stop!

How can police help to prevent crime in my apartment community?

Many police departments are now taking a proactive approach to apartment crime. They have developed training programs to educate apartment owners and mangers on how to protect residents and reduce community crime. These free incentive programs encourage apartment complex owners to improve their communities through specific physical changes, such as the installation of bright lighting, proper window and door locks, surveillance cameras, and fencing. They also teach apartment owners and managers how to recognize criminal activity on property.

The Dallas Police Department describes their Gold Star Certification Program as “a cooperative effort between the Dallas Police Department, Apartment Association of Greater Dallas, along with owners, managers and residents of apartment communities to combat crime in those communities.”

Talk to your local police department to see if they offer an apartment-focused crime reduction program and what you can do to get your apartment complex owner, manager, and neighbors involved.

By law, apartment complex owners and management companies are required to protect all residents and guests legally on premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should an apartment owner have knowledge of previous violence on or near property, they have a duty to take extraordinary security precautions to protect residents and deter future crime.

Security precautions may include:

Enrollment in a crime-reduction training program at the police department.

Background checks on tenants prior to residency and a crime-free tenant rental contract.

Many apartment complex residents want to take a proactive approach to protecting their families and reducing apartment community crime.

See something, say something. Following a string of shootings, residents of a New York apartment complex recently coordinated with police, city leaders, neighbors and apartment management to create a neighborhood watch.

Speak out. Residents of a Georgia apartment complex plagued with violence, recently hosted a peace rally to bring attention to apartment complex violence. These peaceful protests encourage neighbors to watch out for one another, community leaders and police to get involved, and witnesses and victims of violent crimes to come forward.

Know your rights. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one to apartment complex violence, speak with an experienced premises liability firm to learn your rights. No one should have to raise their family in fear.

We are here to Help. Contact us for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of apartment violence and security negligence in and we offer our legal expertise, if desired. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

The Evansville police department has reportedly recognized its third gold-level participant in the department’s Crime-Free-Multi-Housing program.

Shady Tree Apartments, a 126 unit complex off North Fulton Avenue, is apparently the third rental community to be recognized for reaching gold-level status in the voluntary program. A group of townhomes and the Sunrise East complex, on Covert Avenue, have also achieved the recognition.

According to Evansville Courier Press, EPD joined the worldwide crime-reduction initiative in 2013. The program is a collaborative crime prevention effort, which educates apartment owners and managers on recognizing criminal activity, such as drug use, and making their communities safer for their residents. Safety and security improvements may include physical changes, such as installing outdoor lighting and window locks. The program also provides daily 911 activity reports on each property, so that owners and managers may take steps to address any issues in their communities.

“It’s working on the screening and tenant-retention process and working on the physical environment to make it a safer place,” Police Officer Kevin Corbin told Evansville Courier Press. “Obviously nothing is ever going to be 100 percent safe…but [the program] is saying [criminal behavior] will not be tolerated. And that ownership and management, along with the police department, are going to work together to keep the place safe for everyone.”

Media reports indicate there are over 500 properties currently participating in the program, including low-income and luxury residences, ranging from single-units and duplexes to large-scale apartment complexes.

“It doesn’t matter what your economic status is; you deserve to live in a place that is free of crime…,” Officer Corbin describes the police department’s expectation for Evansville residents.

Our Legal Take

The Murray Law Firm applauds the Evansville Police Department in their proactive approach to reducing community crime and the rental owners and managers, such as Shady Tree Apartments, who are taking action to improve the safety and security in their own communities.

By law, apartment complex owners and management companies are required to protect all residents and guests legally on premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should an apartment owner have knowledge of previous crime on or near property and fail to implement adequate security precautions to protect residents and deter future crime, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths that occur as a consequence.

The Murray Law Firm protects victims of apartment violence and security negligence. Many of our Clients have been severely injured in, or lost family members to, apartment complex violence, which may have been prevented. In their honor, we encourage all apartment owners and managers to work with their local police departments to improve the safety and security of their properties and deter crime. Perhaps, through such safety training and community cooperation, many other lives may be spared.

Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of apartment violence and security negligence. If you or a family member has been injured in an apartment complex, contact us now at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Police departments across the country are launching the Gold Star Property program, an anti-crime incentive program to assist apartment complex owners and managers in reducing violence and other crime in their communities. The program has currently found success in 44 states.

The Huntsville, AL police department is now hoping to bring this success to apartment communities in their city, having sent six officers for certification as instructors in the Gold Star program.

“These instructors will have classes throughout the year to teach apartment managers to keep their properties crime free,” HPD Capt. Mark McMurray announced to media.

“Sometimes management companies overlook the small things, making your property crime free means you need to put the proper locks on doors and windows, proper lighting in the parking lot, tenants need to sign a crime-free addendum that they will remain crime free, you need to do background checks on your tenants,” warns Capt. McMurray.

The HPD hopes to assist struggling property managers and owners with all types of crime, including loitering, drugs and violence. The changes needed to meet the Gold Star Property standards may be small, such as fresh paint and trash removal, or more complex. All property owners who complete the free program will be able to advertise as a certified Gold Star property.

Our Legal Take

The Murray Law Firm commends the Huntsville Police Department for taking the initiative to educate property owners on community safety and security. The Gold Star program is an invaluable training tool for apartment owners and managers to reduce and deter crime in their communities and it is our hope that every local apartment owner will take advantage of this free and potentially life-saving opportunity.

By law, apartment complex owners and management companies are required to protect all residents and guests legally on premises from any foreseeable harm. For example, should an apartment owner have knowledge of previous crime on or near property and fail to implement adequate security precautions to protect residents and deter future crime, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or wrongful deaths that occur as a consequence.

The Murray Law Firm protects these victims of apartment violence and security negligence. Many of our Clients have been severely injured in, or lost family members to, apartment community violence, which may have been prevented. In their honor, we encourage all apartment owners and managers to work with their local police departments to improve the safety and security of their properties and deter crime. Perhaps, through such training and community cooperation, many other lives may be spared.

Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has extensive and successful experience in representing victims of apartment violence and security negligence. If you or a family member has been injured in an apartment complex, contact us now at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Tennessee and Georgia state law enforcement officials confirm a spike in unrestrained motorist and passenger accidents. Sadly, these statistics extend to teens and young children who were injured or killed in accidents without being properly restrained.

The Murray Law Firm hopes this new data will serve as a grave reminder to all parents, drivers and passengers to buckle up.

News 12 reports:

Vehicle crashes involving unrestrained motorist and passengers are increasing in both Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia.

Georgia and Tennessee state law enforcement officials confirmed the statistics during a major press conference at Erlanger Medical Center.

“We’ve seen a spike in crashes. Interstates have seen a 22-percent increase in crashes this year,” said one Georgia State Trooper.

Within the 12-county Chattanooga district for the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the numbers are considered disturbing.

Since 2012, more than 1,100 unrestrained people have been injured in crashes. 142 of those cases resulted in death. Hamilton County had the highest unrestrained fatalities with 33.

Since January of this year, 86-unrestrained motorists and passengers were injured in crashes. 28-of those injures happened in Hamilton County. But those numbers mainly account for adults.

High School students taking part in the “It Can Wait” program, sponsored by AT&T, are using a virtual driving simulator to learn the perils of texting while driving.

Students at Cheyenne South High School were among those to take part in the “It Can Wait” program. Teens took turns driving through a virtual city, negotiating turns, avoiding traffic hazards and watching other vehicles, all while trying to respond to text messages received through a provided cellphone.

The resulting virtual accidents showed students the potential risks of texting while driving on real roads.

“It shows in just three to five seconds what can happen when you’re distracted, and the consequences can be fatal,” said Debbie Maljian of the Laramie County School District. “It can wait. No message is worth texting and driving.”

The Department of Transportation has released a new work zone safety campaign, urging drivers to “expect the unexpected.”

The new campaign launches during National Work Zone Awareness week and reminds drivers that work zones may change frequently from one day to the next, posing risks for both motorists and work zone employees if drivers are distracted or not paying attention.

Spring means warmer weather, orange cones and more highway workers on America’s roads. As construction season approaches, drivers nationwide should “Expect the Unexpected” – this year’s theme for National Work Zone Awareness Week. The victims of work zone crashes are typically drivers and their passengers, not highway workers, but all need to be kept safe during the construction and repair-heavy summer months.

I had the opportunity to speak to families affected by work zone crashes today at the National Work Zone Awareness Week kickoff in Arlington, Va. Though the number of work zone fatalities is decreasing, it was heart wrenching to acknowledge that, each year, we are still losing loved ones in work zone crashes.

Highway workers are a key part of keeping our roads safe – and we must do our part to keep them safe. Nowhere is this more clear than in Princeton, N.C., where a 36-year-old highway worker – a five-year veteran of the NCDOT – was struck and killed while working on the Goldsboro Bypass on US 70 in Wayne County earlier this week.

In 2013, the most recent year for which data are available, 579 people died in work zone crashes – a slight decrease from the 617 lives lost the previous years. This is the first decline in work zone fatalities since 2010, but it is still 579 too many.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Foxx shares this belief and, with AASHTO, is calling on all of us to promote the vision of “Toward Zero Deaths.” As a Department, we should embrace this goal and use every tool at our disposal – but as individual drivers and passengers, we need to drive more carefully, especially through highway work zones, and avoid using cellphones and other distractions while behind the wheel.

The Murray Law Firm works tirelessly for victims and families devastated by work zone accidents and we offer our legal expertise, if needed. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Safe Kids Worldwide has begun a pedestrian safety campaign, which specifically targets children. Whether rural or urban, all children deserve safe roadways to navigate to school and home. Simple safety measures, such as street lamps, crosswalks, sidewalks, speed bumps, and crossing signals, will save hundreds of lives every day.

The Murray Law Firm is proud to join parents, teachers, neighbors and community leaders as advocates for child pedestrian safety.

While improved roadway safety is crucial, drivers must also take responsibility to stamp out distracted, impaired, and reckless driving. For the safety of our children, we remind all drivers to stay alert, particularly in and around schools and residential neighborhoods where children may be walking or playing.

South Florida is the nation’s fourth-most-dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians, according to a report issued Tuesday, with people on foot being run down by motor vehicles at almost triple the average rate for the rest of America.

And around the rest of the state, the numbers look even more dismal, according to the report. The three U.S. cities with worse records than the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach axis: Jacksonville, Tampa-St. Petersburg and Orlando, in ascending order of infamy.

State officials were not inclined to argue with the grim portrayal of Florida’s pedestrian safety, or lack of it. “They have some very valid points,” conceded Billy Hattaway, point man for the Florida Department of Transportation’s efforts to make streets safer for foot traffic. “We have some real problems.”

The report, Dangerous by Design 2014, was issued by a pair of urban-redesign activist groups, the National Complete Streets Coalition and Smart Growth America. It gives the United States in general low marks for pedestrian safety.

More than 47,000 pedestrians died in traffic accidents from 2003 to 2012, the report notes, “sixteen times the number of Americans who died in natural diasters — earthquakes, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes” during the same period.

Using a measure it calls the Pedestrian Danger Index — a computation of the likelihood of someone on foot being killed by a passing vehicle, using data on traffic fatalities and the number of people who walk to work — the report placed South Florida at nearly the bottom of the barrel.

The national average for the Pedestrian Danger Index is 52.2. South Florida’s score was 145.33. The raw numbers on which the index was based didn’t look much better. The only places that recorded a higher number than South Florida’s 1,539 pedestrian fatalities over the past decade were the much-larger New York and Los Angeles metropolitan areas.

Advocates for cyclist and pedestrian rights and personal injury attorneys The Murray Law Firm work tirelessly to protect victims and families of pedestrian and cycling accidents throughout Florida. On behalf of our many clients who have been injured or lost loved ones to pedestrian tragedies, we remind all south Florida drivers to stay alert and avoid distractions on our roadway.

Cyclists across south Florida are demanding improvements to perilous inter-coastal bridges, which have left hundreds injured throughout Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.

The cycling community has suffered severe cuts, fractures and other serious injuries due to the grated draw bridges crossing over south Florida’s inter-coastal waterways. Victims are now voicing their demands for improved cyclist safety. The Miami New Times reports:

Take the case of Stephen Tate from Miami, who commented on the post that the Miami River bridge gave him so much trouble that he felt he shouldn’t be alive: “just had to get 20 stitches spread between my hands, elbow, and hip from a fall I had crossing over the Miami River downtown. I got off easy considering I could have been bulldozed by the truck behind me. Grated bridges are death traps for anyone on two wheels!”

He wasn’t alone. At least 30 people commented, with multiple folks comparing riding over a wet drawbridge in South Florida to driving over a cheese grater. Others, like Christina Warren, said they tore ligaments and owed thousands in medical bills: “I wiped out on wet grates. Broken nose, 50 stitches in my face, and torn ligaments in both thumbs! I contacted multiple lawyers, as there was no signage saying danger or walk bike, etc. No one was interested to represent me. With deductible, etc., I was out $5,000 in medical expenses!”

Or Salomon Jakubowicz: “I almost died on one grated bridge, and it was not raining. It is always slippery, and the metal is sharp. I still have the scars. I fell November 2012 on the Dania Boulevard grated bridge. It is slippery with the typical humidity… The metal broke my helmet in half and was encrusted on my ribs, shoulder, and leg.”

Our Legal Take

Advocates for cyclist and pedestrian rights at The Murray Law Firm are deeply concerned by the lack of response by city and county officials. According to the Miami New Times report, one Broward County bridge is now being tested for improved cyclist safety measures. However, this response is underwhelming and insulting to the south Florida cyclist and pedestrian community, who have endured years of hazardous bridges and roadways and still find themselves waiting.

South Florida officials are already under fire following a recent report naming the region the “fourth-most-dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians.” It is time local officials and city planners make south Florida pedestrian and cyclist safety a priority.

The Murray Law Firm work tirelessly to protect victims and families of pedestrian and cycling accidents throughout Florida. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us toll free at 888.842.1616 or by email at legal help@murraylegal.com.

Could this West Ashley apartment stabbing have been prevented and are justice and compensation available to Ms. Moore?

Local News

Security measures are in question after 25-year-old Monet Moore “was stabbed outside her West Ashley apartment late Tuesday night,” November 6, 2018, according to News 2.

Police told ABC 4, the stabbing occurred “at the Orleans Gardens apartments in the 1900 block of Hazlewood Drive.” A suspect has since been arrested.

The complex was the location of a fatal shooting in February 2016 and a violent armed robbery March 2014, per News 2 and WCSC reports.

Our Legal Take

Apartment residents and guests have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises. The Murray Law Firm questions the level of security provided on the property and whether this stabbing may have been prevented.

What additional security measures, such as gated-entry, bright lighting, fencing, surveillance cameras, and security patrols, were implemented by the complex owners and management following media reports of prior violence on property?

Generally, property owners are required to protect all those legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the facts of this matter reveal that the apartment complex owner or management failed to provide adequate security to protect those on its premises, Monet Moore may seek justice and elect to pursue legal claims for her injuries.

Based upon its prior successful experience in handling security negligence claims on behalf of victims and their families, The Murray Law Firm suggests that photographs and a thorough, unbiased inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately, before any evidence may be repaired, damaged or destroyed. Given the complexities of pursuing a negligent security case, it is imperative that the victim retain an experienced attorney who can ensure the preservation of any and all evidence that may support such a claim.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Apartment Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Could this senseless Spartanburg apartment shooting have been prevented and are justice and compensation available to the victims?

Local News

Security measures are under scrutiny after two young men, 18 and 21, were injured during a shooting outside the “Norris Ridge Apartments around 4 p.m.” Monday afternoon, November 5, 2018, according to 7 News.

Police told FOX Carolina, “the shooting happened when a crowd of people were standing around talking in front of building 108 when an individual walked towards the crowd and began shooting.” Both victims were transported to Spartanburg Regional Hospital. Their identities and current conditions have not been released.

Apartment residents and guests have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises. The Murray Law Firm questions the level of security provided on the property and whether this shooting may have been prevented.

What additional security measures, such as gated-entry, bright lighting, fencing, monitored surveillance cameras, and security patrols, were implemented by the apartment complex owner following media reports of prior gun violence on property?

Generally, property owners are required to protect all those legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the facts of this matter reveal that the apartment complex owner or management failed to provide adequate security to protect those on its premises, the victims may seek justice and elect to pursue legal claims for their injuries.

Based upon its prior successful experience in handling security negligence claims on behalf of victims and their families, The Murray Law Firm suggests that photographs and a thorough, unbiased inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately, before any evidence may be repaired, damaged or destroyed. Given the complexities of pursuing a negligent security case, it is imperative that the victims retain an experienced attorney who can ensure the preservation of any and all evidence that may support such a claim.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Apartment Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.

Could this violent Atascocita apartment home invasion have been prevented and are justice and compensation available to the young victim?

Local News

A 17-year-old boy was shot and injured “during a home invasion…at the Eagle Crest apartment complex near Astascocita Road and Timber Forest” Monday night, October 29, 2018, according to KPRC 2.

Police told The Houston Chronicle, “[a]t least one man brandishing a gun barged into the home” and “shot the male resident in the abdomen.” He was transported to Houston Northwest Hospital with injuries.

Our Legal Take

Apartment residents and guests have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises. The Murray Law Firm questions the level of security provided on the property and whether this shooting may have been prevented.

Have there been prior incidents of violence on or near property?

How did the assailant gain entry to the complex?

What security measures, such as gated-entry, bright lighting, fencing, surveillance cameras, and security patrols, were in place to deter crime and protect the victim at the time of the shooting?

Generally, property owners are required to protect all those legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the facts of this matter reveal that the apartment complex owner or management failed to provide adequate security to protect those on its premises, the victim may seek justice and elect to pursue legal claims for his injuries.

Based upon its prior successful experience in handling security negligence claims on behalf of victims and their families, The Murray Law Firm suggests that photographs and a thorough, unbiased inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately, before any evidence may be repaired, damaged or destroyed. Given the complexities of pursuing a negligent security case, it is imperative that the victim retain an experienced attorney who can ensure the preservation of any and all evidence that may support such a claim.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Victims of Apartment Security Negligence…Contact us Now for a Free Consultation.

The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have recovered millions of dollars for our Clients, andrecently obtained a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.

We represent our Clients on a contingency agreement, which generally means that no fees or payments are owed until and unless we recover. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us via e-mail (click here) or by telephone at 888.842.1616. Consultations are free and confidential.